Dominic James officially signs for Partizan - by Zoran PopovicAfter two weeks of negotiations Dominic James (180-PG-86, college: Marquette) officially sings for Serbian Champion. James started this season in Aris Thessaloniki and on 7 games in Eurocup average scored 14.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1,4 steals and in Greek championship on 13 games average scored 15 points 2.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.9 steals per game. Before Aris and Partizan Dominic James played for Marquette University, pre-season games for Milwaukie Bucks Mersin and Lukoil Akademik.

BJ Anthony suspended for ten days - by Eurobasket NewsSkycity Breakers forward Benny Anthony (198-F-88) will sit out ten days after a breach of team protocol. Anthonys breach of the players own expectations and standards has led to a decision from within the team to have Anthony take the time out to consider his commitment to the current Australian National Basketball League campaign.

The team driven suspension is supported by club management and coaching staff, with Head Coach Andrej Lemanis passing the news on to Anthony early this week. The 23 year old power forward was unfit to contribute fully to practice on Saturday after a late night the evening prior and as a consequence will sit out all team practices, games and community work up to and including Thursday 16th February.

Anthony will miss both games against Wollongong in that time, with Josh Bloxham travelling to Wollongong with the team this Friday for Saturday nights encounter with the Hawks.

Round 14: #1 Siauliai is defeated by Ventspils - by Eurobasket NewsThe games are now more important than at the beginning of the Regular Season. We may still expect few shocking results in upcoming 3 rounds. There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with defeat of the leader, derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Lithuanian Siauliai (12-2) on the court of fifth ranked Latvian Ventspils on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by Ventspils 96-87. The hosts trailed by 10 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 9 points. Ventspils outrebounded Siauliai 34-19 including 23 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American guard Steven Gray (195-89, college: Gonzaga) scored 26 points and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward Sam Willard (205, college: Pacific) chipped in 14 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. American guard Cam Long (193-88, college: George Mason, agency: KMG Sports Management) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Ventspils have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place in 1. Siauliai at the other side still keeps top position with two games lost. Ventspils will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Siauliai will play at home against Tartu Ulikool and is hoping to win this game. One of the most interesting games of round 14 was a derby match between two teams from Estonia. The game took place in Tallinn where second ranked Kalev/Cramo won against visiting Tartu Ulikool (5-11) 72-61. Belarusian power forward Pavel Ulyanko (204-79) notched 15 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and Armands Skele supported him with 12 points and 8 rebounds. Even a double-double of 22 points and 12 rebounds by swingman Marek Doronin (200-83) did not help to save the game for Tartu Ulikool. Kalev/Cramo have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending Estonian champion maintains second position in 1 with 11-5 record behind leader Siauliai. Tartu Ulikool at the other side keeps the ninth place with 11 games lost. Kalev/Cramo will play against Baltai Kaunas (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Tartu Ulikool will play against the league's leader Siauliai and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game between Top Four teams took place in Siauliai. First ranked Lithuanian host Siauliai (12-2) defeated second-ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo (11-5) 93-84. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Kalev/Cramo. Rashaun Broadus had a double-double by scoring 11 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners. Kalev/Cramo's coach Aivar Kuusmaa rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Siauliai maintains first position in 1 with 12-2 record. Defending Estonian champion Kalev/Cramo keeps the second place with five games lost. Siauliai will face Tartu Ulikool (#9) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kalev/Cramo will play against Baltai Kaunas (#10). The most impressive stats of the last round was 20 points and 8 rebounds by David McClure of Kedainiai.

Very expected game in Lubertsy where 11th ranked Latvian Liepaja (2-14) was crushed by fourth ranked Russian Triumph Lyubertsy (10-3) 105-57 on Thursday. The game without a history. Triumph Lyubertsy led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Liepaja's 28. They outrebounded Liepaja 39-21 including a 25-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Triumph Lyubertsy looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 5 passes made by Liepaja's players. American forward Davon Jefferson (204-86, college: USC) scored 23 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Canadian power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona) chipped in 21 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Four Triumph Lyubertsy players scored in double figures. Triumph Lyubertsy's coach Valdemaras Chomicius felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Arturs Bricis (193-92) responded with 12 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Josh Mayo (182-87, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) scored 11 points. Triumph Lyubertsy have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place in 1. Liepaja lost eighth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Triumph Lyubertsy will face Rudupis (#5) in Prienai in the next round. Top scorers:Triumph: D.Jefferson 23+6reb+1ast, K.Landry 21+7reb, D.Soloviev 15+3reb, S.Karasev 12+5reb+3ast, E.Valiev 8+5reb+1ast, T.McKee 5+5astLiepaja: A.Bricis 12+5reb+1ast, J.Mayo 11+1ast, M.Kravcenko 10, J.Bailey 9+2reb, T.Leiteris 5+4reb+1ast, K.Miglinieks 5+3reb+1ast

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Lithuanian Siauliai (12-2) on the court of fifth ranked Latvian Ventspils on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by Ventspils 96-87. The hosts trailed by 10 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 9 points. Ventspils outrebounded Siauliai 34-19 including 23 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American guard Steven Gray (195-89, college: Gonzaga) scored 26 points and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward Sam Willard (205, college: Pacific) chipped in 14 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. American guard Cam Long (193-88, college: George Mason, agency: KMG Sports Management) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds and American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) scored 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Ventspils and five Siauliai players scored in double figures. Ventspils have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place in 1. Siauliai at the other side still keeps top position with two games lost. Ventspils will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Siauliai will play at home against Tartu Ulikool and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Ventspils: S.Gray 26+2reb+7ast, R.Zakis 18+3reb, S.Willard 14+9reb+2ast, J.Young 13+1reb+6ast, A.Berzins 9+9reb+2ast, T.Abernethy 7+1reb+2astSiauliai: C.Long 21+6reb+2ast, E.Ruzgas 19+1reb+1ast, M.Zukauskas 14+1reb+7ast, R.Broadus 14+5reb+4ast, A.Siksnius 11+4reb+1ast, J.Jucikas 8+2reb+2ast

One of the most interesting games of round 14 was a derby match between two teams from Estonia. The game took place in Tallinn where second ranked Kalev/Cramo won against visiting Tartu Ulikool (5-11) 72-61. The game was mostly controlled by Kalev/Cramo. Tartu Ulikool was better in fourth quarter 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tartu Ulikool was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Belarusian power forward Pavel Ulyanko (204-79) notched 15 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and Latvian guard Armands Skele (192-83) supported him with 12 points and 8 rebounds. Even a double-double of 22 points and 12 rebounds by swingman Marek Doronin (200-83) did not help to save the game for Tartu Ulikool. American forward Bill Amis (205-87, college: Hawaii) added 12 points and 8 rebounds for the guests. Kalev/Cramo have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending Estonian champion maintains second position in 1 with 11-5 record behind leader Siauliai. Tartu Ulikool at the other side keeps the ninth place with 11 games lost. Kalev/Cramo will play against Baltai Kaunas (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Tartu Ulikool will play against the league's leader Siauliai and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Kalev/Cramo: P.Ulyanko 15+8reb+1ast, G.Arbet 14+2reb+1ast, A.Skele 12+8reb+2ast, G.Dorbek 9+3reb+2ast, T.Sokk 7+2reb+1ast, J.Toome 6+6reb+4astTartu Ulikool: M.Doronin 22+12reb+1ast, B.Amis 12+8reb, V.Allingu 8+10reb, R.Veideman 7+4reb+3ast, S.Sokk 5, K.Saage 5+1reb

Rather predictable result in Pasvalys where seventh ranked Lithuanian Pieno Zvaigzdes (7-8) defeated bottom-ranked Latvian Liepaja (2-14) 63-51 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 38-19 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Pieno Zvaigzdes dominated on the defensive end, holding Liepaja to just 6 points in third quarter. Gytis Sirutavicius (195-83) scored 16 points and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American-Puerto Rican point guard TreVon Hughes (183-87, college: Wisconsin, agency: Edge Sports) chipped in 8 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Four Pieno Zvaigzdes players scored in double figures. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Josh Mayo (182-87, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) responded with 17 points and guard Artis Ate (193-89) scored 9 points and 5 rebounds. Pieno Zvaigzdes moved-up to sixth place in 1, which they share with Juventus. Liepaja lost eighth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Pieno Zvaigzdes: G.Sirutavicius 16+2reb+4ast, L.Nobles 13+1reb, A.Kieza 13+4reb, S.Kulvietis 10+4reb, T.Hughes 8+8reb+4ast, E.Bendzius 2+4reb+2astLiepaja: J.Mayo 17+4reb+1ast, A.Ate 9+5reb+1ast, M.Kravcenko 9+3reb, A.Bricis 8+6reb, K.Miglinieks 4+4reb+1ast, A.Helmanis 2+8reb+2ast

The game between Top Four teams took place in Siauliai. First ranked Lithuanian host Siauliai (12-2) defeated second-ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo (11-5) 93-84. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Kalev/Cramo. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-84. Siauliai dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Kalev/Cramo's 46. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) had a double-double by scoring 11 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Valdas Vasylius (203-83, college: ODU) chipped in 19 points and 6 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) during the contest. Swingman Gregor Arbet (194-83) responded with 20 points (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and Belarusian power forward Pavel Ulyanko (204-79) scored 19 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Kalev/Cramo's coach Aivar Kuusmaa rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Siauliai maintains first position in 1 with 12-2 record. Defending Estonian champion Kalev/Cramo keeps the second place with five games lost. Siauliai will face Tartu Ulikool (#9) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kalev/Cramo will play against Baltai Kaunas (#10). Top scorers:Siauliai: E.Ruzgas 22+2reb+1ast, V.Vasylius 19+2reb+6ast, C.Long 14+3reb+3ast, R.Broadus 11+10reb+8ast, J.Jucikas 11+2reb, I.Ramasauskas 6+3rebKalev/Cramo: G.Arbet 20+3reb+1ast, P.Ulyanko 19, G.Dorbek 14+2ast, K.Kitsing 12+5reb, T.Sokk 6+4ast, A.Skele 5+7reb+6ast

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Prienai where one of their biggest challengers Lithuanian Rudupis (9-5) were defeated by fifth ranked Latvian Ventspils (10-5) 79-69 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 16 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 10 points. Ventspils dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Rudupis' 26. They outrebounded Rudupis 34-23 including 25 on the defensive glass. American guard Jahmar Young (196-86, college: N.Mexico St.) scored 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import guard Steven Gray (195-89, college: Gonzaga) chipped in 15 points during the contest. Forward Arnas Labuckas (205-87, agency: Interperformances) responded with 22 points and forward Simas Buterlevicius (200-89) scored 9 points and 9 rebounds. Ventspils have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place in 1. Loser Rudupis dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Ventspils will have a break next round. Rudupis will play at home against Triumph Lyubertsy (#3) in Lubertsy and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Ventspils: J.Young 21+6reb+5ast, S.Gray 15+1reb+2ast, M.Diane 10+2reb, M.Meiers 9+7reb, S.Willard 8+9reb+1ast, T.Abernethy 6+4reb+1astRudupis: A.Labuckas 22+1reb+2ast, E.Zelionis 11+3reb+2ast, A.Milaknis 9+5reb+1ast, S.Buterlevicius 9+9reb, G.Kadziulis 8+1reb+9ast, A.Mazutis 5+1reb+2ast

Everything went according to plan when fourth ranked Russian Triumph Lyubertsy (10-3) outscored on the road 8th ranked Lithuanian Kedainiai (6-9) 86-62 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 55-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Triumph Lyubertsy forced 26 Kedainiai turnovers. Guard Victor Zvarykin (198-86) scored 17 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Sergey Karasev (200-93) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists during the contest. American forward David McClure (200-86, college: Duke) responded with 20 points and 8 rebounds and guard Vytautas Sulskis (200-88, college: Youngstown St.) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Triumph Lyubertsy have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place in 1. Loser Kedainiai keeps the eighth position with nine games lost. Triumph Lyubertsy will face Rudupis (#5) in Prienai in the next round. Kedainiai will play again at home against Triumph Lyubertsy in Lubertsy. Top scorers:Triumph: V.Zvarykin 17+7reb+2ast, S.Karasev 17+3reb+4ast, T.McKee 12+3reb+5ast, A.Kuzyakin 10+2reb, D.Kulagin 7+6reb+1ast, E.Valiev 6+8reb+1astKedainiai: D.McClure 20+8reb+1ast, V.Sulskis 13+6reb+1ast, E.Dimsa 9+6reb+2ast, V.Jasikevicius 7+3reb+2ast, L.Kisielius 4+5reb, A.Adomaitis 3+3reb+2ast

gschID: 168751

Challenge Cup Quarterfinals

Neptunas celebrated the first quarterfinal win in the series against Sakalai 79-75. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 24-13 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Neptunas dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Sakalai's 40. They outrebounded Sakalai 35-24 including 26 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was forward Laurynas Mikalauskas (205-85, college: Virginia) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Simas Galdikas (203-87) chipped in 11 points and 9 rebounds. Five Neptunas players scored in double figures. Forward Evaldas Baniulis (201-87, college: S.Carolina) produced 13 points and 5 assists and guard Laurynas Samenas (192-88) added 14 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Neptunas will try to seal their semifinal ticket when they face Sakalai away from home on February 15. Top scorers:Neptunas: L.Mikalauskas 21+10reb+1ast, S.Galdikas 11+9reb, A.Brunins 11+3reb, M.Mazeika 10+1reb+2ast, M.Ruikis 10+2reb+4ast, E.Dainys 6+2reb+3astSakalai: L.Samenas 14+1reb+4ast, E.Baniulis 13+2reb+5ast, A.Butkevicius 11+3reb+3ast, P.Joneliunas 8+5reb+2ast, D.Pukis 7+1reb, J.Gintvainis 7+3reb+1ast

Rakvere made a huge step towards reaching Challenge Cup semis after they beat TTU/Kalev on the road 90-83. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But TTU/Kalev won fourth quarter 21-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Center Reinar Hallik (208-84) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 9 rebounds. Latvian swingman Juris Umbrasko (197-79) contributed with 22 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark St.) replied with 24 points and 8 rebounds and forward Kiur Akenparg (190-88) added 21 points in the effort for TTU/Kalev. Four TTU/Kalev players scored in double figures. Rakvere Tarvas will host the second game of the best-of-three series on February 10th. Top scorers:Tarvas: R.Hallik 23+9reb, J.Umbrasko 22+7reb+2ast, K.Cipruss 12+7reb, V.Veski 9+2reb+1ast, T.Oja 7+1reb+3ast, M.Dorbek 7+1reb+1astTTU/Kalev: A.Arnold 24+8reb, K.Akenparg 21+3reb+2ast, K.Makke 12+4reb, M.Kaja 10+4reb+2ast, K.Keres 7+5reb, E.Keedus 4+4reb+2ast

Valmeira surged ahead in the series against Naglis Palangos following a 74-63 win on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by Valmiera. Naglis Palangos was better in third quarter 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Forward Janis Porzingis (201-82, agency: Interperformances) had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Jai Lucas (177, college: Texas) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Paulius Kleiza (195-88) responded with 10 points and 9 rebounds and center Augustinas Vitas (210-82, college: Birm.Southern) scored 13 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Naglis will try to bounce back on home court on Saturday. Top scorers:Valmiera: I.Bankevics 17+1reb+3ast, J.Porzingis 17+12reb+2ast, J.Lucas 15+6reb+3ast, A.Butjankovs 10+14reb, O.Virsis 8+6reb+3ast, J.Rozitis 7+4reb+3astNaglis Palangos: A.Vitas 13+5reb+1ast, V.Peciukas 11+4reb+1ast, M.Mockevicius 10+1reb+2ast, P.Kleiza 10+9reb+1ast, R.Pickett 9+1reb, T.Rinkevicius 6+5reb+1ast

First win for BC Minsk-2006 and Hawkins flying to Finland - by Timur TolokhJustin Hawkins (201-F-85, college: N.Mexico St.) will finish season in Torpan Pojat Helsinki. American forward averaged 13.4 points, 4.6 rebounds per game in VTB United League, 13. points, 3.6 rebounds per game in Belorussian Championship and in Eurochallenge 13.7 points, 2.5.Justin commented that Finland team gave him better offer and VTB-league finish soon so its better for both sizes that Im leaving. Also soon I will have a baby my wife pregnant and I should fly and take care of my family.And Finland team will give me a chance to fly home and come back,in Minsk they couldn't gave me this chance because of many important games for the team.I want to say thanks a lot for Minsk,i have spent good time in this club and in this beautiful city.Torpan already played in VTB United League but didnt qualify on first stage.

BK Minsk-2006 edge first big win in VTB United League against Russian team Enisey Krasnoyarsk 91-84.

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BOSNIA

Good preformances for Todic and Djurasovic in Ukraine - by Miljan VeskovicIt was a good night for Miroslav Todic (205-F-85), Bozo Djurasovic (200-F-87) and Zeljko Lukajic in Ukraine. Their team Politekhnika-Halychyna won on the road against BC Kyiv 85:83. This was Zeljko Lukajic's (agency: Beo Basket ) first game on the bench of the Ukrainian club and in short time after his arrival the team showed significant improvement. The game was decided after an overtime and Bosnian players Miroslav Todic (205-F-85) and Bozo Djurasovic (200-F-87) had important roles in this victory. Miroslav Todic (205-F-85) almost had a double double with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists while Bozo Djurasovic (200-F-87) had 10 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists.

Rilski Sportist met Mornar Bar on the road last night. It was a Round 8 game of the Balkan league. The Montenegrin squad celebrated 89-76 home victory in this meeting. It actually was a key game for the second position in Group A. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 47-31 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Rilski Sportist helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Power forward Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) orchestrated the victory by scoring 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) contributed with 20 points for the winners. Mornar Bar's coach Mihajlo Pavicevic used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 23 points and 5 assists and power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) added 11 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Rilski Sportist. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Mornar Bar moved-up to second place in Group A. Rilski Sportist at the other side dropped to the third position with four games lost. Mornar Bar is looking forward to face OKK Beograd at home in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against Torus Skopje and is hoping to win this game. The game between Levski and Ulcinj is postponed due to bad weather (snowstorms).

Inaugural All-Star Game scheduled for March 31-April 1in Halifax, Nova Scotia - by Eurobasket NewsThe National Basketball League of Canada and the Halifax Rainmen are excited to unveil the NBL Canada All-Star logo and announce that the inaugural event, brought to you by Rogers Communications Inc., will be held March 31-April 1 in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

NBL Canada All-Star Weekend is a celebration of basketball that unites the entire NBL Canada family and provides our fans with an engaging and interactive experience, said John Kennedy, NBL Canada Commissioner.

The weekend will consist of two-days of exciting events, from an All-Star breakfast, family activities; to a three-point shoot out, slam-dunk contest, legends game and of course the All-Star Game.

'We are excited to be bringing this historic event to Halifax, Nova Scotia,' said Andre Levingston, President & CEO of the Halifax Rainmen and President of NBL Canada. 'Halifax has long been considered as the basketball capital of Canada. We could not dream of a better place to celebrate the inaugural All-Star Weekend than in Nova Scotia, where the dream and vision of NBL Canada began.'

Courtesy of http://nblcanada.pointstreaksites.com

IBL looking for Great Energy from Edmonton this season - by Eurobasket NewsThe Energy will be flowing in Edmonton once again this spring as the International Basketball League team opens its fourth season in the City of Champions.The Edmonton Energy is coming off its most successful season to date as they advanced to the IBL Championship game in 2011, and is looking forward to stepping onto their new home court at the Saville Community Sports Centre (GO Centre).

The GO Centre, located on the University of Alberta's South Campus, is a state-of-the-art multi-use recreation facility which opened last September with guidance from the Energy's David Dorward as founder and past president of the GO Community Centre Board of Directors. The centerpiece of the 236,000-square-foot complex is a 2,800-seat arena which will serve as the Energy's home court.

'Our fans can expect a professional healthy basketball atmosphere that embraces much of the talent from Edmonton and around the world on and off the court,' commented Energy General Manager Rick Stanley in regard to the team's move to the GO Centre. 'Stay tuned for details on half time entertainment, the Energy Dance team and our new Proton and Electron mascots.'

The roster that will make their debut on the GO Centre hardwood is largely a work in progress, though Stanley has announced the return of one talented Canadian to the team and the addition of another.

Troy Gottselig, a 6'8' center from the University of Saskatchewan and 2011 IBL All-Star, will be back for his third season in an Energy uniform this spring. Gottselig averaged 11 points and eight rebounds per game last season and finished with five double-doubles, including one in Edmonton's playoff semi-final victory over Albany that propelled them on to the IBL Championship game last July. Most recently, Gottselig has been playing with a team in the Czech Republic.

'Troy's leadership and character as a player and person are second to none. We are privileged to have such a fine ambassador of the game back in Edmonton,' stated Stanley.

New to the team is Danny Boticki, a 6'4' guard from Victoria, B.C., where he played at Saint Michael's University School, the alma mater of NBA great Steve Nash. Boticki played collegiately at Idaho State University and later moved on to a professional career in Germany for several seasons.

'Danny is a phenomenal player at both ends of the court and will bring excitement to our program,' Stanley predicted. 'He is a true citizen and we are proud to see him become a member of the Edmonton community.'

Stanley will be adding additional players to the Energy's roster as well as announcing the team's head coach in the coming weeks.

There is a rich history of basketball in Canada, as the sport was invented by the great Canadian-American, James Naismith in 1891. The IBL has enjoyed great competitors in the North including the B.C. Titans where pro basketball may return.

'There is great talent in Canada and they need an opportunity to showcase their abilities in a highly competitive environment to progress as professional athletes, which the IBL and Energy are providing. With the Energy going into their fourth season, it provides a foundation for us to expand the possibilities, especially in the west. We look forward to our continued dialogue with Canada Basketball and collaboration with the provincial leaders including Basketball Alberta and Basketball British Columbia as well as others to find the right ownership to bring professional basketball to more communities,' the Canadian born Commissioner shared.

The Energy will open the 2012 season at the Go Centre in early May. A full schedule for the IBL will be announced in February.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Anthony Bennett hits the big stage with Jordan brand selection - by Eurobasket NewsAnthony Bennett (201-F-93) will take part in the Jordan Brand Classic but this time in the main event. The Jordan Brand All American game rosters were released this morning and the 6-foot-8 2012 forward claimed his spot on the west team.

The rise of Anthony Bennett has been remarkable. Just a few years ago Anthony Bennett was just another unknown Canadian on American soil trying to make a name for himself. Now things look a whole lot different for the Brampton, ON native. Bennett has gone from relatively unknown to becoming one the most sought after prospects in the class of 2012 and is set to decide in the spring from his top five, listing Kentucky, Washington, Oregon, UNLV and Florida.

Going from being ranked 91 to #6 all in one year is crazy, he says, I told Naz [Long] last year that all this was going to happen so Im just happy.

Bennett along side Duane Notice and Kevin Pangos took part in the Jordan Brand Classic a couple years ago but in the international game where he impressed many in attendance. This time around hell have a chance to showcase his wide rage of skills at the biggest stage.

This indicates that he is on the right path like other Canadians Tristan Thompson, Cory Joseph and Myck Kabongo who all took part in this game and are Findlay prep Alums. Thompson and Joseph went on to be drafted in the first round of the 2011 NBA Draft, while Myck Kabongo is in talks to be a top pick in 2013 draft.

Im excited to be honest, it means a lot to me cause it shows that all my hard work in the summer has paid off . Other Canadians like Tristan and Cory played in this game and they are in the NBA so this means Im on the right track of reaching my goals & dream to be playing in the league.

Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Kyrie Irving, Rajon Rondo, John Wall plus many more current NBA stars have all taken part in the Jordan Brand Classic, which puts Anthony Bennett in a very special group.

The Jordan Brand Classic All American game goes down April 14th in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Courtesy of http://crownmagonline.com

Anthony Bennett Hits The Big Stage with Jordan Brand Selection - by John Garycourtesy basketball.ca Anthony Bennett will take part in the Jordan Brand Classic but this time in the main event. The Jordan Brand All-American Game rosters were released this morning and the 6ft 8 inch forward claimed his spot on the West team. The rise of Anthony Bennet has been remarkable. just a few years ago, Anthony Bennett was just another unknown Canadian on American soil trying too make a name for himself. Now things look a lot different for the Brampton Ontario native. Bennett has gone from a relative unknown to becomming one of the most sought after prospects in the class of 2012. and is set to decide in the spring from his top five consisting of Kentucky, Washington, Oregon,UNLV and Florida.

Guangdong Wins Again as Beijing Loses Without Morris - by Arthur VolbertGuangdong moved into a six-game lead in the CBA as it defeated Fujian while Beijing lost to Shandong. Guangdong is 25-4 while Beijing is 19-10.

James Singleton and Aaron Brooks each scored 25 points as Guangdong won 126-116. Singleton added 14 rebounds while Brooks had 8 assists. Zhu Fangyu scored 23. Chen Jianghua and Zhou Peng each had 12 points. Wang Shipeng had 10 points and 5 rebounds. Dong Hanlin had 8 points and 10 rebounds. Su Wei and Wang Zheng, Guangdong's two seven-footers, played a total of 14 minutes and were scoreless. China really has no one competent behind aging Wang Zhizhi at center as it faces the Olympics this summer. Seven-foot import Will McDonald had 35 points and 11 rebounds for Fujian. Anthony Roberson had 45 points and 7 rebounds. Zaid Abbas had 14 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Luo Yiting scored 7.

CBA Round 31: Beijing Ducks lose to Shandong Bulls - by Eurobasket NewsThe games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game between second ranked Beijing Ducks (19-10) and twelfth ranked Shandong Bulls (13-17) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. Beijing Ducks were defeated by Shandong Bulls in a tough game in Jinan 112-118. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 65-57 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Shandong Bulls had a 30-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Shandong Bulls especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 71.4 percentage. 32 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 36 points (!!!) (perfect behind the arc making all five shots). The former international guard Jie Sun (190-86) contributed with 24 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Shandong Bulls' coach Bob Weiss used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Stephon Marbury (188-77, college: Georgia Tech) answered with 35 points (!!!) and 4 assists for Beijing Ducks. Shandong Bulls maintains twelfth place with 13-17 record. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the second position with ten games lost. Shandong Bulls are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#14) in Tianjin in the next round. Beijing Ducks will play at home against Foshan (#16) and are hoping to win this game. An interesting game for Guandong Tigers (25-4) which played road game in Jinjiang against 4th placed Fujian SBS XunXin (17-13). First ranked Guandong Tigers managed to get a 10-point victory 126-116. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Fujian SBS XunXin. American players dominated the game. It was a great evening for forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 14 rebounds. Aaron Brooks helped adding 25 points and 8 assists. At the losing side guard Anthony Roberson (188-83, college: Florida) responded with 45 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Guandong Tigers have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place with 25-4 record. Fujian SBS XunXin at the other side keeps the fourth position with 13 games lost. Guandong Tigers will play against Xinjiang Flying Tige (#6) in Urumqi in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Fujian SBS XunXin will play on the road against DongGuan Leopards and it may be a tough game between close rivals. The game in Shanghai was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (15-13) played at the court of eighth ranked Shanghai Sharks (16-13). Shanghai Sharks defeated Zhejiang Cyclones 87-75 on Wednesday. American players dominated also this game. It was an exceptional evening for Mike Harris who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 21 rebounds. Shanghai Sharks' coach used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. J.R. Smith came up with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Zhejiang Cyclones in the defeat. Shanghai Sharks moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Guangsha L. Loser Zhejiang Cyclones dropped to the ninth position with 13 games lost. Shanghai Sharks will meet at home bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Cyclones' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Hangzhou to the arena Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. Fifteenth-ranked Bayi Fubang (9-19) was very close to win a game against ninth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (16-13) in Hangzhou. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions managed to secure only one-point victory 90-89. However their fans expected much easier game. Peter John Ramos fired a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Bayi Fubang's coach Chang Bin Adijan tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Shanghai S. Bayi Fubang at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with 19 games lost. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Hangzhou Zhejiang Cyclones. Important game to mention about took place in Foshan. Sixteenth ranked Foshan (8-21) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 17th ranked Jiangsu Dragons (7-22) 110-108 in the fight for the sixteenth place. It was a very good performance for Marcus Douthit who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 21 rebounds. Foshan's coach allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Foshan maintains sixteenth place with 8-21 record. Jiangsu Dragons lost their sixth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 22 games lost. Foshan will face league's second-placed Beijing Ducks on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Shanghai Sharks (#7).

Other games in round 31 were not that significant. Jilin NE T. beat Shanxi Zh. on the road 128-123. Qingdao DS won against TianJin R. on its own court 115-102. Liaoning H. unfortunately lost to Xinjiang F.T. in Urumqi 99-104. The most impressive performance of 31th round was 40 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds by Donnell Harvey of TianJin R..

The game in Shanghai was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (15-13) played at the court of eighth ranked Shanghai Sharks (16-13). Shanghai Sharks defeated Zhejiang Cyclones 87-75 on Wednesday. Zhejiang Cyclones were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Shanghai Sharks dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Zhejiang Cyclones' 40. They outrebounded Zhejiang Cyclones 59-42 including 18 on the offensive glass. American players dominated also this game. It was an exceptional evening for forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 21 rebounds. Forward Marcus Landry (201-85, college: Wisconsin) accounted for 24 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. Shanghai Sharks' coach used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. Guard J.R. Smith (198-85) came up with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) added 6 points and 14 rebounds respectively for Zhejiang Cyclones in the defeat. Shanghai Sharks moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Guangsha L. Loser Zhejiang Cyclones dropped to the ninth position with 13 games lost. Shanghai Sharks will meet at home bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Cyclones' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Hangzhou to the arena Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. Top scorers:Shanghai S.: H.Mike 31+21reb+1ast, L.Marcus 24+8reb, Z.ZhaoXu 12+7reb, L.Wei 8+3reb+2ast, P.Fei 4, M.Lingyuan 4+8reb+1astZhejiang C.: S.J.R. 29+8reb+5ast, D.Jinhui 14+5reb+1ast, T.Hai 10+4reb, Z.Dayu 6+3reb, B.Josh 6+14reb, C.Fei 5+4reb+3ast

Fifteenth-ranked Bayi Fubang (9-19) was very close to win a game against ninth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (16-13) in Hangzhou. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions managed to secure only one-point victory 90-89. However their fans expected much easier game. It looked good early as Bayi Fubang took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Zhejiang Guangsha Lions had a 22-11 second period charge getting the lead and Bayi Fubang was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 89-90. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Bayi Fubang's 36. They outrebounded Bayi Fubang 45-33 including 17 on the offensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by Bayi Fubang helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) fired a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) chipped in 14 points and 9 rebounds. Four Zhejiang Guangsha Lions players scored in double figures. The former international forward Lei Wang (203-86) produced 29 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-77) added 23 points respectively for lost side. Bayi Fubang's coach Chang Bin Adijan tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Shanghai S. Bayi Fubang at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with 19 games lost. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Hangzhou Zhejiang Cyclones. Top scorers:Guangsha L.: R.Peter John 20+10reb+1ast, C.Wilson 14+9reb+2ast, L.Chih-Chieh 11+4reb+3ast, W.Zirui 11+2reb+3ast, J.Lipeng 10, W.Bo 9+7reb+3astBayi Fubang: W.Lei 29+6reb+4ast, W.ZhiZhi 23+3reb+2ast, X.ZhongHao 12+11reb, Z.Chengyu 7+5reb+6ast, Y.Cao 6+1reb+1ast, Z.Bo 5+1reb

There was a surprise result when thirteenth ranked Jilin Tigers (12-17) beat higher ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (16-12) in Taiyuan 128-123 on Wednesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Shanxi Zhongyu won third quarter 36-33. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jilin Tigers made 26-of-33 free shots (78.8 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Shanxi Zhongyu turnovers. Strangely Shanxi Zhongyu outrebounded Jilin Tigers 48-35 including 21 on the offensive glass. Shanxi Zhongyu was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for Jordanian guard Osama Daghles (198-79, college: Midwestern St.) who helped to win the game recording 27 points and 8 assists. American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) contributed with 28 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. American swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) answered with a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!), 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals (made all of his seventeen free throws !!!) and the other American import forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) added 33 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds in the effort for Shanxi Zhongyu. Four Jilin Tigers and five Shanxi Zhongyu players scored in double figures. Shanxi Zhongyu's coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Jilin Tigers maintains thirteenth place with 12-17 record. Loser Shanxi Zhongyu keeps the fifth position with 12 games lost. Jilin Tigers will face Bayi Fubang (#15) in Ningbo in the next round. Shanxi Zhongyu will play at home against Liaoning Hunters (#11) in Yingkou. Top scorers:Jilin NE T.: W.Jameel 28+7reb+1ast, M.Cartier 28+5reb, D.Osama 27+2reb+8ast, Z.Biao 20+6reb+1ast, Z.Cheng 8+11reb+5ast, L.Wei 5+2rebShanxi Zh.: W.Marcus 36+10reb+6ast, G.Charles 33+18reb+1ast, D.JiangPeng 20+3reb, P.Jiang 12+1reb+1ast, Y.PengFei 10+6reb, R.Junwei 5+2reb+1ast

The game between second ranked Beijing Ducks (19-10) and twelfth ranked Shandong Bulls (13-17) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. Beijing Ducks were defeated by Shandong Bulls in a tough game in Jinan 112-118. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 65-57 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Shandong Bulls had a 30-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Shandong Bulls especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 71.4 percentage. 32 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 36 points (!!!) (perfect behind the arc making all five shots). The former international guard Jie Sun (190-86) contributed with 24 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Shandong Bulls' coach Bob Weiss used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Stephon Marbury (188-77, college: Georgia Tech) answered with 35 points (!!!) and 4 assists and forward Xiaochuan Zhai (205-93) added 20 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Beijing Ducks. Four Beijing Ducks players scored in double figures. Shandong Bulls maintains twelfth place with 13-17 record. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the second position with ten games lost. Shandong Bulls are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#14) in Tianjin in the next round. Beijing Ducks will play at home against Foshan (#16) and are hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Shandong FB: A.Alan 36+3reb, S.Jie 24+3reb+3ast, H.Othello 21+9reb, Y.Ding 9+5reb, W.Ke 7+6reb, T.HanLin 6+6rebBeijing Ducks: M.Stephon 35+2reb+4ast, J.Zhe 22+8reb+2ast, Z.Xiaochuan 20+10reb+3ast, Z.YanXi 12+4reb, C.Lei 12, W.Xiaohui 7+5reb+2ast

Important game to mention about took place in Foshan. Sixteenth ranked Foshan (8-21) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 17th ranked Jiangsu Dragons (7-22) 110-108 in the fight for the sixteenth place. Jiangsu Dragons were trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 23-18 charge of Foshan, which allowed them to win the game. Foshan outrebounded Jiangsu Dragons 53-32 including a 20-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. Jiangsu Dragons were plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American-Filipino power forward Marcus Douthit (210-80, college: Providence, agency: Edge Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 21 rebounds. American forward Marcus Haislip (208-80, college: Tennessee) contributed with 29 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Foshan's coach allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 11 rebounds and the former international guard XueFeng Hu (185-80) added 20 points in the effort for Jiangsu Dragons. Four Foshan and five Jiangsu Dragons players scored in double figures. Foshan maintains sixteenth place with 8-21 record. Jiangsu Dragons lost their sixth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 22 games lost. Foshan will face league's second-placed Beijing Ducks on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Shanghai Sharks (#7). Top scorers:Foshan: H.Marcus 29+7reb+3ast, M.Michel 24+9reb+4ast, D.Marcus 17+21reb+1ast, L.Zhi 14+3reb+3ast, H.Bing 9+2reb+3ast, Z.Zhun 7+1astJiangsu D.: V.Jackson 30+11reb+2ast, H.XueFeng 20+2reb+2ast, M.Da 20+1reb+1ast, Y.Li 17+5reb+1ast, L.Yahui 15+2reb+1ast, W.Marcus 4+8reb+5ast

Rather expected game when 14th ranked TianJin Rongcheng (10-19) lost on the road to eleventh ranked Qingdao Double Star (15-15) 115-102 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Qingdao Double Star. TianJin Rongcheng was better in third quarter 33-26. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. TianJin Rongcheng was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Quite impressive performance for American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tenn-Martin) who helped to win the game recording 34 points (!!!), 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. Forward Kai Chen (205-88) contributed with 21 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Five Qingdao Double Star players scored in double figures. American power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) answered with a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds and Ivorian-French power forward Mamadou Lamizana (207-81, college: Rutgers, agency: VVG Sports) added 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for TianJin Rongcheng. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Qingdao Double Star. They moved-up to tenth place. Loser TianJin Rongcheng keeps the fourteenth position with 19 games lost. Qingdao Double Star will have a break next round. TianJin Rongcheng will play at home against Shandong Bulls (#12) in Jinan and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Qingdao DS: H.Lester 34+5reb+6ast, C.Kai 21+5reb+2ast, O.Olumide 14+7reb+6ast, C.Liang 14+7reb+1ast, X.YuYang 12+2reb+1ast, Z.Jinshuai 10+1reb+1astTianJin R.: H.Donnell 40+13reb+2ast, L.Mamadou 22+6reb+4ast, X.Lei 10+3reb+1ast, X.GuiJun 8+2reb+1ast, M.XiangLong 8+2reb, Z.Zhihan 5+1reb

An interesting game for Guandong Tigers (25-4) which played road game in Jinjiang against 4th placed Fujian SBS XunXin (17-13). First ranked Guandong Tigers managed to get a 10-point victory 126-116. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Fujian SBS XunXin. The game was mostly controlled by Guandong Tigers. Fujian SBS XunXin was better in fourth quarter 34-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guandong Tigers forced 21 Fujian SBS XunXin turnovers. They shot the lights out from three nailing 16 long-distance shots on high 51.6 percentage. American players dominated the game. It was a great evening for forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 14 rebounds. point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) helped adding 25 points and 8 assists. Four Guandong Tigers players scored in double figures. At the losing side guard Anthony Roberson (188-83, college: Florida) responded with 45 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds and center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) produced a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Guandong Tigers have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place with 25-4 record. Fujian SBS XunXin at the other side keeps the fourth position with 13 games lost. Guandong Tigers will play against Xinjiang Flying Tige (#6) in Urumqi in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Fujian SBS XunXin will play on the road against DongGuan Leopards and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Guandong ST: B.Aaron 25+3reb+8ast, S.James 25+14reb+1ast, Z.FangYu 23+3reb, C.Jianghua 12+2reb+2ast, Z.Peng 12+1ast, W.ShiPeng 10+5reb+2astFujian XX: R.Anthony 45+7reb+2ast, M.Will 35+11reb+1ast, A.Zaid 14+10reb+5ast, L.Yi Ting 7+1reb+2ast, G.SongLin 3+3reb+3ast, Y.GengLin 3+3reb+1ast

Rather predictable result when seventh ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (16-12) won against 10th ranked Liaoning Hunters (14-15) in Urumqi 104-99 on Wednesday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Liaoning Hunters won third quarter 27-26. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Xinjiang Flying Tige made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Quite impressive performance for American swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. The former international center ZhengDong Tang (213-84) contributed with 20 points and 8 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward Josh Powell (206-83, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds and the former international center Xiaoxu Li (207-90) added 14 points and 14 rebounds in the effort for Liaoning Hunters. Four Xinjiang Flying Tige and five Liaoning Hunters players scored in double figures. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Xinjiang Flying Tige. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Shanxi Zh. Liaoning Hunters lost their fifth game in a row. They dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige will face league's leader Guandong Tigers in Dongguan in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Liaoning Hunters will play on the road against Shanxi Zhongyu (#5) in Taiyuan. Top scorers:Xinjiang F.T.: P.Tim 33+11reb+5ast, T.ZhengDong 20+8reb+3ast, X.GuoChong 20+1ast, M.Lati 10+4reb+4ast, C.Tal 9+2ast, P.Duo 6+1reb+5astLiaoning H.: G.Ailun 22+4reb+2ast, P.Josh 22+14reb+1ast, L.Xiaoxu 14+14reb, H.Dejun 12+2reb, Y.Ming 11+3reb+13ast, C.Rodney 8+3reb

Zadar signs Zoran Vrkic - by Eurobasket NewsZoran Vrkic (200-G-87) is a new member of Zadar. The Croatian forward penned a deal for rest of the season. Vrkic started it with Italian Lega2 team Biancoblu Conad Bologna. He appeared 14 times in the league averaging 7.4 points and 3.8 rebounds. Season 2010/11 Zoran Vrkic split between Union Olimpija and Peristeri Athens. With Olimpija he had limited playing time, while later with Peristeri he had 12.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.5 apg for 15 games in Greece. Vrkic played for Split from 2008 to 2010. He was one of their best players with 13.8 ppg and 3 rpg for 28 games in their second season together. In the past, he was a member of Sibenik, Postojna and Matulji. Vrkic was a member of the Croatian B National Team last summer.

Goran Vrbanc stays with Zadar - by Eurobasket NewsAnother news came from Zadar today. The team extended deal with its best player Goran Vrbanc (194-G-84) and he will stay in Zadar until the end of the season. The 27-year-old guard appeared 12 times for the club so far averaging 17.5 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists. Before Zadar, Goran Vrbanc spent few years with Cibona Zagreb. Last season he had 9.5 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 17 games in Croatian league. His numbers in Euroleague and Adriatic league were lower. Vrbanc played for Rijeka and Siroki in the past. With Siroki (short term deal), he won the Bosnian league title in 2009. With Cibona, Vrbac won two titles in Croatia. Goran Vrbac joined Zadar during the pre-season and immediately became their leading player. The team is currently No.1 in A1 league with 11-3 record.

Krizevci and HC Tihomir Bujan part ways, Rudolf Jugo returns - by Eurobasket NewsTihomir Bujan is no longer a Head Coach of Krizevci. Two sides terminated their deal after seven straight defeats in A1 league. The team had a good start, but later they dropped to 5-10 and now they fight for the survival. The new Head Coach of the team is Rudolf Jugo . The Croatian specialist worked with Krizevci last season and actually helped them win the promotion from A2 to A1. Krizevci were champions of A2 League - Group North. Rudolf Jugo started last season with Kvarner and joined Krizevci in March of 2011. Before Kvarner, he worked with Zrinjski, Slovan, Prishtine, Cedevita, Zadar and Rijeka. Rudolf Jugo led Zadar to championship title in 2005. They also won the Croatian Cup that same season and Jugo was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Coach of the Year -05. Jugo coached twice at the Croatian league All-Star Game.

76ers assign Craig Brackins to D-League - by Eurobasket NewsThe Philadelphia 76ers announced that they have assigned second-year forward Craig Brackins (6'10''-F-87, college: Iowa St.) to their NBA Development League affiliate, the Maine Red Claws. Brackins has appeared in eight games for the Sixers this season.

Brackins (6-10, 230) was assigned to the D-League three times last season with the Sixers old affiliate, the Springfield Armor. In 18 games for the Armor, he averaged 20.1 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 37.6 minutes per game while shooting 44.0% from the floor, 24.7% from 3-point range and 72.7% from the line. He was tied for the eighth highest scoring average of any D-League player last season.

KML Round 19: Tln Kalev defeats Valga/CKE in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket NewsThe most exciting game of round 19 in the KML took place in Tallinn. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Valga/CKE (3-17) to sixth ranked Tln Kalev (6-14) 78-75 on Wednesday evening. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Valga/CKE won third quarter 18-11. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tln Kalev made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Valga/CKE turnovers. It was a great evening for American guard Brandis Raley-Ross (188-G-87, college: S.Carolina) who led his team to a victory scoring 26 points. Russian center Aleksei Fedortchuk (210-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped adding 13 points and 13 rebounds. At the losing side Latvian center Lauris Blaus (204-90, agency: FCM) responded with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Tln Kalev maintains sixth place with 6-14 record. Valga/CKE lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Tln Kalev are looking forward to face league's leader Tartu Ulikool at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Valga/CKE will play against BC Rakvere (#3) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series. Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Tallinn: Kalev/Cramo (#2) and Tln Kalev (#6). Tln Kalev was crushed at home by 28 points 60-88 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It was an exceptional evening for international guard Gert Dorbek (194-85) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. Joosep Toome accounted for 10 points and 5 rebounds. Kalev/Cramo's coach Aivar Kuusmaa felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Matt Shaw (203-88, college: UNLV) came up with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Tln Kalev in the defeat. Kalev/Cramo (13-1) have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. Defending champion maintains second place having five point less than leader Tartu Ulikool. Tln Kalev lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 14 games lost. Kalev/Cramo will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tln Kalev will play at home against the league's leader Tartu Ulikool (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Very important is a home loss of third ranked BC Rakvere (12-6) against fourth ranked Rapla (11-8) on Friday night. Host BC Rakvere was defeated by Rapla in Rakvere 105-88. Sven Kaldre fired 27 points for the winners. Kaspars Cipruss produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 15 rebounds for lost side. BC Rakvere's coach rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the third consecutive win for Rapla. They maintain fourth place with 11-8 record. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Rapla will meet league's leader Tartu Ulikool on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BC Rakvere will play against Valga/CKE and hope to secure a win. The game in Valga supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked TTU/Kalev (9-9) played at the court of 8th ranked Valga/CKE (3-17). TTU/Kalev smashed Valga/CKE 89-58. Worth to mention a great performance of Andrew Arnold who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. Valga/CKE's coach Varis Krumins gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. TTU/Kalev maintains fifth place with 9-9 record. Valga/CKE lost their fourth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. TTU/Kalev will have a break next round. Valga/CKE will play at home against BC Rakvere (#3).

In the last game of round 19 Tln Kalev lost to Rapla on the opponent's court 72-82.

The most exciting game of round 19 in the KML took place in Tallinn. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Valga/CKE (3-17) to sixth ranked Tln Kalev (6-14) 78-75 on Wednesday evening. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Valga/CKE won third quarter 18-11. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tln Kalev made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Valga/CKE turnovers. It was a great evening for American guard Brandis Raley-Ross (188-87, college: S.Carolina) who led his team to a victory scoring 26 points. Russian center Aleksei Fedortchuk (210-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped adding 13 points and 13 rebounds. At the losing side Latvian center Lauris Blaus (204-90, agency: FCM) responded with 20 points and 9 rebounds and Latvian guard Reinis Strupovics (192-87) scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Tln Kalev maintains sixth place with 6-14 record. Valga/CKE lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Tln Kalev are looking forward to face league's leader Tartu Ulikool at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Valga/CKE will play against BC Rakvere (#3) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series. Top scorers:Tln Kalev: B.Raley-Ross 26+4reb+2ast, M.Kurg 16+3reb+2ast, A.Fedortchuk 13+13reb+1ast, M.Shaw 11+2reb, R.Suija 7+6reb, I.Tulit 3+1reb+1astValga/CKE: R.Strupovics 20+7reb+3ast, L.Blaus 20+9reb+2ast, A.Tagamets 11+3reb, R.Petersonig 11+3reb+3ast, V.Vares 7+6reb+2ast, A.Vasar 4+4reb

The game in Valga supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked TTU/Kalev (9-9) played at the court of 8th ranked Valga/CKE (3-17). TTU/Kalev smashed Valga/CKE 89-58. The game without a history. TTU/Kalev led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They held Valga/CKE to an opponent 23.9 percent shooting from the field compared to 49.3 percent accuracy of the winners. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. Forward Kiur Akenparg (190-88) contributed with 27 points for the winners. Four TTU/Kalev players scored in double figures. Latvian center Lauris Blaus (204-90, agency: FCM) answered with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds and forward Robert Petersonig (190-90) added 18 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Valga/CKE. Valga/CKE's coach Varis Krumins gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. TTU/Kalev maintains fifth place with 9-9 record. Valga/CKE lost their fourth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. TTU/Kalev will have a break next round. Valga/CKE will play at home against BC Rakvere (#3). Top scorers:TTU/Kalev: K.Akenparg 27+3reb+1ast, A.Arnold 18+13reb, K.Makke 17+6reb+3ast, E.Keedus 12+8reb+7ast, K.Keres 8+4reb+1ast, S.Tomingas 7+5reb+1astValga/CKE: R.Petersonig 18+6reb, R.Strupovics 17+5reb+1ast, L.Blaus 12+11reb+1ast, V.Vares 6+7reb+3ast, J.Jarvelainen 2+3reb, J.Juerisaar 2+1ast

Rather expected game when 6th ranked Tln Kalev (6-14) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Rapla (11-8) 82-72. Tln Kalev was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 46-34 second half run of Rapla. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Tln Kalev's 36. It was a very good performance for swingman Janar Soo (199-91) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 5 rebounds. Power forward Raido Ringmets (206-83) contributed with 9 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American guard Brandis Raley-Ross (188-87, college: S.Carolina) answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds and Russian center Aleksei Fedortchuk (210-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) added 8 points and 12 rebounds in the effort for Tln Kalev. The victory was the third consecutive win for Rapla. They maintain fourth place with 11-8 record. Tln Kalev lost their third game in a row. They keep the sixth position with 14 games lost. Rapla's next round opponent will be league's leader Tartu Ulikool on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tln Kalev will play against the league's leader Tartu Ulikool (#1). Top scorers:Rapla: J.Soo 20+5reb+1ast, S.Kaldre 16+2reb+4ast, A.Parn 14+6reb, R.Ringmets 9+11reb+3ast, R.Laane 8+3reb+7ast, A.Antson 7+2rebTln Kalev: B.Raley-Ross 24+9reb+2ast, M.Shaw 15+4reb, R.Prii 14+2ast, A.Fedortchuk 8+12reb, M.Kurg 7+5reb+3ast, R.Roos 4+4reb+3ast

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Tallinn: Kalev/Cramo (#2) and Tln Kalev (#6). Tln Kalev was crushed at home by 28 points 60-88 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The game without a history. Kalev/Cramo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 52.2 percentage. It was an exceptional evening for international guard Gert Dorbek (194-85) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. International forward Joosep Toome (202-85) accounted for 10 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Kalev/Cramo's coach Aivar Kuusmaa felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Matt Shaw (203-88, college: UNLV) came up with 21 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import guard Brandis Raley-Ross (188-87, college: S.Carolina) added 16 points respectively for Tln Kalev in the defeat. Kalev/Cramo (13-1) have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. Defending champion maintains second place having five point less than leader Tartu Ulikool. Tln Kalev lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 14 games lost. Kalev/Cramo will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tln Kalev will play at home against the league's leader Tartu Ulikool (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Kalev/Cramo: G.Dorbek 16+7reb+3ast, G.Arbet 12+1ast, K.Saks 11+1reb, J.Toome 10+5reb+3ast, A.Skele 9+3reb+2ast, B.Fall 8+2rebTln Kalev: M.Shaw 21+8reb+2ast, B.Raley-Ross 16+4reb+1ast, R.Roos 9+3reb, M.Kurg 7+1ast, D.Nazarovas 5+2reb, I.Tulit 2+5reb

Very important is a home loss of third ranked BC Rakvere (12-6) against fourth ranked Rapla (11-8) on Friday night. Host BC Rakvere was defeated by Rapla in Rakvere 105-88. The game was mostly controlled by Rapla. BC Rakvere managed to win third quarter 26-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rapla shot 61.3 percent from the field and made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. Strangely BC Rakvere outrebounded Rapla 37-22 including a 22-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. Swingman Sven Kaldre (197-91) fired 27 points for the winners. Swingman Janar Soo (199-91) chipped in 27 points. Latvian center Kaspars Cipruss (210-82, agency: Interperformances) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 15 rebounds and the former international guard Valmo Kriisa (190-74) added 16 points and 6 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. BC Rakvere's coach rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the third consecutive win for Rapla. They maintain fourth place with 11-8 record. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Rapla will meet league's leader Tartu Ulikool on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BC Rakvere will play against Valga/CKE and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Rapla: J.Soo 27+3reb+1ast, S.Kaldre 27+3reb+2ast, A.Parn 16+2reb+2ast, R.Ringmets 16+6reb, R.Laane 9+5reb+4ast, F.Talts 7+1reb+1astTarvas: K.Cipruss 19+15reb+2ast, V.Kriisa 16+4reb+6ast, M.Dorbek 15+5reb+2ast, V.Veski 11+3reb, R.Sirsnins 7+1reb+2ast, J.Vahter 7+3reb

Dubljevic's double-double lands him (Top 16) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News20-year old center Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Buducnost and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4 (Top 16).He had a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Banvit BK (2-2) 83-73. Buducnost is placed at 2nd position in Eurocup group K. Buducnost is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 2nd lost game this season out of 4 games. In the team's last game Dubljevic had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Buducnost and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Bojan Dubljevic averages this season 11.6ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) of Lokomotiv. He is French center in his first season at Lokomotiv. In the last game Traore recorded impressive 26 points and 9 rebounds. Bad luck as Lokomotiv lost that game 76-87 to slightly higher-ranked Benetton TV (#2, 3-1). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in group L. Lokomotiv still maintains its place in the top 3 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 2-2 record is not bad at all. Traore is a newcomer at Lokomotiv and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.2ppg (#5). He also registered 7.8 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to Hilton Armstrong (208-C/F-84) of ASVEL (#3). Armstrong scored 18 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of ASVEL, leading his team to a 79-52 easy win against #4 ranked Aris. ASVEL can only dream about fighting for top spots in group J. They have rather bad season and 1-3 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Armstrong he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Armstrong has a very solid season. In 10 games in Eurocup he scored 10.0ppg. He also has 5.7rpg and FGP: 59.4%.

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Korisliiga Round 31: Joensuun Kataja beats Kauhajoen Karhu in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket NewsAn exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Joensuu. First ranked Joensuun Kataja faced 3rd placed Kauhajoen Karhu. Host Joensuun Kataja (23-5) defeated guests from Kauhajoki (17-11) 98-91. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 98-91. It was a great shooting night for Joensuun Kataja especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. The former international power forward Sami Lehtoranta (205-79) fired 23 points (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tenn-Martin, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Kelly Beidler (199-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's, agency: R.H.Consultancy) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds for lost side. Joensuun Kataja maintains first place with 23-5 record. Kauhajoen Karhu at the other side dropped to the fourth position with 11 games lost. Joensuun Kataja is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against LrNMKY (#7) in Lappeenranta and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident. The game in Lappeenranta was also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Tampereen Pyrinto (17-10) played at the court of 7th ranked LrNMKY (11-17). Tampereen Pyrinto managed to secure a 7-point victory 78-71. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Kenneth Lowe (192-80, college: Purdue) who helped to win the game recording 21 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Damon Williams contributed with 10 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Pasi Riihela (199-75) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds for LrNMKY. LrNMKY's coach Lassi Tuovi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tampereen Pyrinto have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to third place. LrNMKY lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 17 games lost. They share it with Salon Vilpas. Tampereen Pyrinto will play against league's second-placed Loimaan Korikonkarit at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. LrNMKY will play against Kauhajoen Karhu (#4) in Kauhajoki and hopes to get back on the winning track. We should mention about the upset which took place in Uusikaupunki, where higher ranked KTP-Basket (12-17) lost to tenth ranked UU-Korihait (10-17) in a road game 83-99 on Wednesday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of KTP-Basket. It was a great evening for Mikko Jalonen who led his team to a victory scoring 31 points and 4 assists. At the losing side Tony Crocker responded with 19 points. KTP-Basket's coach tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. UU-Korihait moved-up to ninth place. Loser KTP-Basket keeps the sixth position with 17 games lost. UU-Korihait will meet league's second-placed Loimaan Korikonkarit on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KTP-Basket will have a break next round. The game with biggest result difference took place in Kouvola. Local Kouvot (10-18) was outscored by fifth ranked Torpan Pojat (15-13) 81-60. It was a quality performance for Chase Griffin who led the winners and scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Torpan Pojat maintains fifth place with 15-13 record. Kouvot lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with 18 games lost. Torpan Pojat's next round opponent will be Salon Vilpas (#8) at home. Kouvot will play against Tampereen Pyrinto.

We should mention about the upset which took place in Uusikaupunki, where higher ranked KTP-Basket (12-17) lost to tenth ranked UU-Korihait (10-17) in a road game 83-99 on Wednesday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of KTP-Basket. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 99-83. It was a great shooting night for UU-Korihait especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. It was a great evening for point guard Mikko Jalonen (186-82) who led his team to a victory scoring 31 points and 4 assists. American forward James Reaves (203-82, college: Niagara, agency: TSS Management) helped adding 20 points and 9 rebounds. At the losing side American swingman Tony Crocker (201-87, college: Oklahoma) responded with 19 points and the other American import forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Four UU-Korihait and five KTP-Basket players scored in double figures. KTP-Basket's coach tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. UU-Korihait moved-up to ninth place. Loser KTP-Basket keeps the sixth position with 17 games lost. UU-Korihait will meet league's second-placed Loimaan Korikonkarit on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KTP-Basket will have a break next round. Top scorers:KTP: T.Crocker 19+4reb+1ast, T.Blue 15+6reb+2ast, J.Williams 13+6reb, J.Lehtoranta 11+1reb+2ast, M.Pounds 10+1reb, J.Matinen 10+7rebKorihait: M.Jalonen 31+4reb+4ast, J.Reaves 20+9reb+2ast, C.Johnson 17+4reb+4ast, N.Moore 12+10reb+4ast, N.Malinen 9+2reb+2ast, P.Rainamaa 5+3reb+2ast

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Joensuu. First ranked Joensuun Kataja faced 3rd placed Kauhajoen Karhu. Host Joensuun Kataja (23-5) defeated guests from Kauhajoki (17-11) 98-91. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 98-91. It was a great shooting night for Joensuun Kataja especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. The former international power forward Sami Lehtoranta (205-79) fired 23 points (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tenn-Martin, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds. Five Joensuun Kataja players scored in double figures. American forward Kelly Beidler (199-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's, agency: R.H.Consultancy) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds and international forward Vesa Makalainen (200-86) added 20 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Joensuun Kataja maintains first place with 23-5 record. Kauhajoen Karhu at the other side dropped to the fourth position with 11 games lost. Joensuun Kataja is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against LrNMKY (#7) in Lappeenranta and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident. Top scorers:Kauhajoki: K.Beidler 25+12reb, C.Hannah 21+5reb+3ast, V.Makalainen 20+7reb+3ast, A.Huuskonen 9+2ast, J.Eskola 9+2reb, H.Hirvikoski 4+2reb+2astKataja: S.Lehtoranta 23+3reb+2ast, J.Newson 19+8reb, B.Walker 16+3reb+5ast, J.Price 16+5reb+1ast, P.Virtanen 12+3reb+3ast, A.Kanervo 10+2reb+6ast

The game in Lappeenranta was also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Tampereen Pyrinto (17-10) played at the court of 7th ranked LrNMKY (11-17). Tampereen Pyrinto managed to secure a 7-point victory 78-71. LrNMKY was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Tampereen Pyrinto made 25-of-31 charity shots (80.6 percent) during the game, while LrNMKY only scored six points from the stripe. LrNMKY was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Kenneth Lowe (192-80, college: Purdue) who helped to win the game recording 21 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). His fellow American import forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) contributed with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Pasi Riihela (199-75) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and American forward Lawrence Hamm (198-84, college: Towson, agency: Court Side) added 13 points and 13 rebounds in the effort for LrNMKY. Five Tampereen Pyrinto and four LrNMKY players scored in double figures. LrNMKY's coach Lassi Tuovi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tampereen Pyrinto have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to third place. LrNMKY lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 17 games lost. They share it with Salon Vilpas. Tampereen Pyrinto will play against league's second-placed Loimaan Korikonkarit at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. LrNMKY will play against Kauhajoen Karhu (#4) in Kauhajoki and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:LrNMKY: P.Riihela 21+10reb, L.Hamm 13+13reb+3ast, T.Tiedeman 12+3reb+1ast, D.Haynes 11+7reb+7ast, A.Tapio 5+2reb, M.Ojala 5+1rebPyrinto: K.Lowe 21+4reb+1ast, A.Williams 12+3reb+2ast, A.Lehto 11+2reb+1ast, A.Nikkila 10+7reb+1ast, D.Williams 10+13reb+2ast, N.Mattila 5+2ast

The game with biggest result difference took place in Kouvola. Local Kouvot (10-18) was outscored by fifth ranked Torpan Pojat (15-13) 81-60. The game without a history. Torpan Pojat led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a quality performance for American guard Chase Griffin (188-83, college: Pepperdine) who led the winners and scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. His fellow American import point guard Josh Wilson (188-87, college: N.Arizona, agency: Hightower Law Firm) accounted for 15 points for the winning side. Wilson is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Torpan Pojat players scored in double figures. American guard Antoine Jordan (196-83, college: Siena) came up with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and power forward Teemu Rintala (203-88) added 10 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Kouvot in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Torpan Pojat maintains fifth place with 15-13 record. Kouvot lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with 18 games lost. Torpan Pojat's next round opponent will be Salon Vilpas (#8) at home. Kouvot will play against Tampereen Pyrinto. Top scorers:Kouvot: A.Jordan 15+7reb+4ast, T.Rintala 10+7reb+1ast, A.Brown 8+5reb+3ast, I.Seppala 8+2reb+1ast, A.Perttu 8+4reb+2ast, A.Akpaso 5+1astToPo: C.Griffin 21+7reb+2ast, J.Wilson 15+3reb+3ast, H.Mottola 14+5reb, T.Heinonen 10+6reb+2ast, K.Muurinen 10+6reb+1ast, S.Niskanen 4+4reb+1ast

NM1 Round 20: Souffelweyersheim is upset by Orchesien BC - by Eurobasket NewsThe most important game in the last round took place in Orchies between third ranked Souffelweyersheim (13-7) and fourth ranked Orchesien BC (14-6) on Tuesday night. Souffelweyersheim was crushed by Orchesien BC on the road 90-60. The game without a history. Orchesien BC led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Souffelweyersheim to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Orchesien BC forced 20 Souffelweyersheim turnovers and outrebounded them 36-23 including a 28-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Orchesien BC shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. The best player for the winners was point guard Emilien Barbry (188-83) who scored 14 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. Serbian forward Djordje Petrovic (202-84) chipped in 18 points. Orchesien BC's coach Philippe Namyst felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Sebastien Kancel (205-80) produced 13 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Orchesien BC have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Souffelweyersheim at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Orchesien BC are looking forward to face Le Puy ASMB (#16) in Le Puy en Velay in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Souffelweyersheim will play at home against Cognac (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Leader Saint-Quentin delivered the sixteenth victory. This time they crushed 14th ranked Rueil (8-12) 91-55. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Rueil. American guard Keonta Howell (193-85, college: Toledo) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 6 rebounds. Jimmal Ball contributed with 22 points and 4 steals (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Naturalized Serbian center Streten Cabarkapa (204-84) replied with 16 points and 6 rebounds for Rueil. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Saint-Quentin (16-4) have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Newly promoted Rueil keeps the fourteenth place with 12 games lost. Saint-Quentin will play against Vendee Challans (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Rueil will play against Blois (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Eighteenth-ranked CFBB (2-18) made lots of trouble for seventh ranked Roche (13-7) in Paris on Tuesday. The visitors from Roche managed to secure only seven-point victory 78-71. However their fans expected much easier game. Worth to mention a great performance of Moustafa Diallo who helped to win the game recording 18 points (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!). Mouhammadou Jaiteh responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 17 rebounds. CFBB's coach Jacques Commeres rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Roche have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. CFBB lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. Roche will meet at home Stade Clermont (#15) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. CFBB will play against Lievin Basket and hope to secure a win.

Rest of the games of round 20 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Brest was defeated by Cognac in a road game 101-92. Clermont was beaten by Challans at home 73-77. Le Puy lost to Blois on the opponent's court 71-81. Montbrison unfortunately lost to Sorgues in a home game 76-92. Chartres managed to beat Angers BC 49 on the road 75-67. Lievin was defeated by Charleville on its own court 64-74.

There was no surprise when 11th ranked Etendard de Brest (9-11) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Cognac (13-7) 101-92 on Tuesday. Etendard de Brest trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 31-23 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 92-101 at the end of the game. Cognac made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 32 assists comparing to just 18 passes made by Etendard de Brest's players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Jonathan Godin (185-82) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 assists and American center Ian Caskill (207-81, college: JMU) who added 14 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Cognac's coach Philippe Maucourant used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Guard Zaka Alao (187-81) responded with 23 points and Spanish center Rafael Lopez (204-86) scored 14 points and 6 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Five Cognac and four Etendard de Brest players scored in double figures. Cognac moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Etendard de Brest lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 11 games lost. They share it with Chartres and Angers BC 49. Cognac will meet Souffelweyersheim (#5) in the next round. Etendard de Brest will play against Angers BC 49 (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Brest: Z.Alao 23+2ast, R.Lopez 14+6reb+1ast, A.Liorel 12+2reb+2ast, J.Doreau 11+5reb+2ast, J.Lupot 9+3reb+3ast, V.Pridotkas 9+7reb+1astCognac: J.Godin 24+2reb+11ast, M.Bigote 20+4ast, I.Caskill 14+11reb+2ast, N.Kaczmarow 12+2reb+4ast, M.Buval 11+2reb, C.Bertorelle 7+2reb+2ast

No shocking result in a game when tenth ranked Vendee Challans (11-9) defeated on the road 15th ranked Stade Clermont (6-14) 77-73 on Tuesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-16. But Stade Clermont won second period 15-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Vendee Challans made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. Strangely Stade Clermont outrebounded Vendee Challans 43-28 including 28 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Josh Almanson (205-82, college: Bowling Green) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds and forward Fabien Herard (198-79) who added 14 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) during the contest. American forward Jonathan McClark (200-77, college: Rider) responded with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 15 rebounds and Bulgarian swingman Simeon Naydenov (201-81, college: Louisville, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 21 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Vendee Challans moved-up to ninth place. Loser Stade Clermont keeps the fifteenth position with 14 games lost. Vendee Challans will meet at home league's leader Saint-Quentin in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Stade Clermont will play against Roche (#7) and hope to secure a win and be promoted back to the ProB just one year after relegation. Top scorers:Clermont: S.Naydenov 21+1ast, J.McClark 12+15reb+1ast, B.Matanga 12+3reb+2ast, K.Ouattara 10+5reb, J.Beugnot 8+5reb, X.Delarue 5+6rebChallans: J.Almanson 19+10reb, F.Herard 14+6reb+3ast, S.Cherasse 13, N.Gouacide 12+3reb+1ast, J.Geay 9+2reb+1ast, G.Renon 6+1reb

Very expected game when 16th ranked Le Puy ASMB (4-16) was defeated on the road by sixth ranked Blois (13-7) 81-71 on Tuesday. Le Puy ASMB was trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 23-11 charge of Blois, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Le Puy ASMB's 26. They outrebounded Le Puy ASMB 41-28 including 18 on the offensive glass. Blois looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Finnish forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists and center Jonathan Tornato (210-89) who added 15 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. Swingman Guillaume Sene (197-86) responded with 16 points and 8 assists and forward Yohann Smail (197-90) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Blois moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Le Puy ASMB lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 16 games lost. Blois will meet Rueil (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Le Puy ASMB will play against Orchesien BC in Orchies and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Le Puy: M.Gotagni 18+2reb+2ast, Y.Smail 16+10reb+1ast, G.Sene 16+4reb+8ast, A.Daube 11+2reb+4ast, R.Martin 9+8reb+1ast, M.Zephir 1+2rebBlois: D.Davis 18+6reb+2ast, V.Kaunisto 18+11reb+5ast, J.Tornato 15+10reb+1ast, P.Brochard 15+2reb+5ast, T.Sani 6+4reb+3ast, G.Staelens 4+1reb+3ast

Eighteenth-ranked CFBB (2-18) made lots of trouble for seventh ranked Roche (13-7) in Paris on Tuesday. The visitors from Roche managed to secure only seven-point victory 78-71. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime then CFBB managed to tie the game at the end of regular time. However that was Roche who were better in overtime eventually winning that period 15-8. They made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game. Roche forced 20 CFBB turnovers. Strangely CFBB outrebounded Roche 43-27 including 29 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Moustafa Diallo (200-86) who helped to win the game recording 18 points (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) and forward Erwan Andre (200-89) who added 13 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Four Roche players scored in double figures. Power forward Mouhammadou Jaiteh (201-94) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 17 rebounds and guard Anthony Racine (190-94) scored 13 points. CFBB's coach Jacques Commeres rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Roche have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. CFBB lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. Roche will meet at home Stade Clermont (#15) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. CFBB will play against Lievin Basket and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:CFBB: M.Jaiteh 24+17reb+2ast, A.Racine 13+4reb+2ast, P.Rigot 11+4reb, Y.Morin 9+6reb, D.Inglis 4+3reb+1ast, A.Chassang 4+6reb+2astRoche: M.Diallo 18+2reb+2ast, B.Thomas 17+1ast, E.Andre 13+9reb, A.Toto N'Kote 13+7reb, S.Neri 8+2ast, R.Pegon 4+3reb

Leader Saint-Quentin delivered the sixteenth victory. This time they crushed 14th ranked Rueil (8-12) 91-55. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Rueil. The game without a history. Saint-Quentin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Rueil to just 6 points in fourth quarter. Saint-Quentin dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Rueil's 38. Saint-Quentin forced 29 Rueil turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Rueil's players. American guard Keonta Howell (193-85, college: Toledo) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 6 rebounds. Naturalized American guard Jimmal Ball (178-78, college: Akron, agency: ACMT) contributed with 22 points and 4 steals (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Saint-Quentin players scored in double figures. Naturalized Serbian center Streten Cabarkapa (204-84) replied with 16 points and 6 rebounds and Georgian center Georges Mdivani (205-85) added 15 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) in the effort for Rueil. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Saint-Quentin (16-4) have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Newly promoted Rueil keeps the fourteenth place with 12 games lost. Saint-Quentin will play against Vendee Challans (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Rueil will play against Blois (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Rueil: S.Cabarkapa 16+6reb+3ast, G.Mdivani 15+8reb, K.Gourari 7+5reb+2ast, M.Diame 7+6reb, C.Mansare 5, M.Niakate 3+1reb+1astSt Quentin: J.Ball 22+3ast, K.Howell 18+6reb+2ast, O.Romain 15+5reb+1ast, J.Lesieu 10+8reb+1ast, K.Bichard 8+1reb+5ast, G.Sylvain 6+1ast

The most important game in the last round took place in Orchies between third ranked Souffelweyersheim (13-7) and fourth ranked Orchesien BC (14-6) on Tuesday night. Souffelweyersheim was crushed by Orchesien BC on the road 90-60. The game without a history. Orchesien BC led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Souffelweyersheim to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Orchesien BC forced 20 Souffelweyersheim turnovers and outrebounded them 36-23 including a 28-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Orchesien BC shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. The best player for the winners was point guard Emilien Barbry (188-83) who scored 14 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. Serbian forward Djordje Petrovic (202-84) chipped in 18 points. Five Orchesien BC players scored in double figures. Orchesien BC's coach Philippe Namyst felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Sebastien Kancel (205-80) produced 13 points and 5 rebounds and guard Frederic Broliron (193-79) added 14 points respectively for the guests. Orchesien BC have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Souffelweyersheim at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Orchesien BC are looking forward to face Le Puy ASMB (#16) in Le Puy en Velay in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Souffelweyersheim will play at home against Cognac (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Souffel: F.Broliron 14+1ast, S.Kancel 13+5reb+1ast, J.Begarin 7+1reb+3ast, J.Bach 7+1reb, A.N'Diaye 6+5reb+1ast, J.Alingue 6+7rebOrchy: A.Belkessa 19+1reb+1ast, D.Petrovic 18+3reb+3ast, E.Barbry 14+9reb+8ast, J.Bluntt 13+4reb+1ast, O.Gouez 10+7reb, A.Gacko 4+5reb+2ast

Very predictable result when eighth ranked Sorgues (12-8) beat on the road 17th ranked Montbrison (3-17) 92-76 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Sorgues led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Sorgues forced 21 Montbrison turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 17 long-distance shots on high 53.1 percentage. Sorgues looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Arnaud Thinon (178-87) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and guard Samir Mekdad (188-86) who added 11 points and 5 assists during the contest. Four Sorgues players scored in double figures. American power forward James St Robert (203-86, college: Dowling) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds and Polish forward Lukasz Biela (200-80) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Montbrison's coach Marc Berjoan tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Sorgues maintains eighth position with 12-8 record. Newly promoted Montbrison keeps the seventeenth place with 17 games lost. Sorgues will meet at home league's second-placed Charleville-Mezieres in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Montbrison will play against Chartres (#13) and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Montbrison: L.Biela 19+7reb+2ast, J.St Robert 17+12reb, F.Giraud 15+4reb+1ast, C.Pegon 9+7reb+3ast, K.Mondesir 9+1reb+2ast, A.Dumoulin 5+4reb+2astSorgues: A.Thinon 23+1reb+5ast, Y.Bassine 12+1reb+6ast, S.Mekdad 11+4reb+5ast, D.Griffin 11+5reb+1ast, X.Pasut 9+7reb+3ast, V.Ateba 8+2reb+1ast

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 12th ranked Angers BC 49 (9-11) was defeated at home by thirteenth ranked Chartres (9-11) 75-67 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-67. Chartres dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Angers BC 49's 28. Chartres forced 19 Angers BC 49 turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian center Ljubomir Avramovic (201-79) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds and forward Guillaume Merie (198-83) who added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Chartres' coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American forward Tyray Pearson (201-80, college: Iowa St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds and forward SyPir Traore (204-85) scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. Chartres moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Brest and Angers BC 49. Chartres will meet at home Montbrison (#17) in the next round where they are favorite. Angers BC 49 will play against Etendard de Brest (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Angers BC 49: T.Pearson 23+13reb+1ast, S.Traore 21+7reb+2ast, T.Lonzieme 14+4reb+3ast, T.Ramphort 5+5reb+3ast, A.Fellah 3+5reb+4ast, O.Sulpice 1+4reb+3astChartres: L.Avramovic 26+10reb+3ast, G.Merie 13+6reb+4ast, W.Berquier 10+1reb+4ast, G.Lemon 8+1reb, H.Jalce 6+4reb, M.Vasic 3+1reb

Everything went according to plan when second ranked Charleville-Mezieres (15-5) won against on the road 9th ranked Lievin Basket (10-10) 74-64 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 74-64. Charleville-Mezieres dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Lievin Basket's 26. Charleville-Mezieres forced 26 Lievin Basket turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American-British power forward Tafari Toney (203-86, agency: JEMsports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 20 points and 14 rebounds and forward Nicolas Racon (194-85) who added 12 points during the contest. Four Charleville-Mezieres players scored in double figures. Guard Vincent Lehut (186-87) responded with 21 points and forward Aude Pierre-Joseph (194-79) scored 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Charleville-Mezieres maintains second position with 15-5 record behind leader St Quentin. Loser Lievin Basket dropped to the tenth place with ten games lost. Charleville-Mezieres will meet Sorgues (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Lievin Basket will play against CFBB in Paris and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Lievin: V.Lehut 21+4reb+3ast, A.Pierre-Joseph 9+6reb+4ast, A.Hoard 9+8reb, T.Sanborn 7+4reb, J.Dessart 6+3reb+3ast, S.Cretaux 5+1astCharleville: T.Toney 20+14reb+3ast, C.Belser 12+4reb+1ast, N.Racon 12+4reb+2ast, D.Pistre 12+2reb+1ast, F.Calvez 8+1reb+5ast, C.Guillarme 5+7reb+3ast

Rabotnicki receives some sponsorship from municipality Center - by Vasko PetrovskiThe best basketball club in Macedonia, Rabotnicki, will receive financial injection of 30.000 euros from Center, one of the biggest municipality of Macedonian capital Skopje. This is amount of one year sponsorship which will be divided in 12 monthly payments.Rabotnicki had financial difficulties in the last couple of years after the long time sponsor Fershped left the club that is 14-times champion of Macedonia. Because of money problems, team from City park in the winter break lost it's best player in the first half of the season, Dime Tasovski, who signed for club Lirija. Coach Marjan Lazovski also lost his best center, Brandon Col, who left the club because problem of regular payments.At the moment, Rabotnicki is on sixth place on Super league-table with minor chance to gain place in first four that will continue the title fight in the playoffs.

Macedonian team played bad in the first quarter when the home team gain 13-points lead after only four minutes (19-6). After that, Hapoel Tel-Aviv hold their lead until last 10 minutes when Feni played much better in the first half of fourth quarter. Team from Macedonia had 11-2 run which brought them in the lead (69-68) but home players respond with their own 10-1 run which secured them the victory.

After eight games, Feni is third on the table with score 4-4 and with no chances to catch Levski and Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Their biggest rival for the third place on the table which secured place in quarterfinals is serbian Napredak Krusevac.

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GERMANY

Ilian Evtimov (Pascal Roller Reminds Me Of The Character In The Movie Taken With A Bruce Wills Look) - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberIlian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) is a 28 year old 201 cm forward playing his second season in France for Chalon. He has the French-Bulgarian citzenships and played at North Carolina State from 2001-2006. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 10.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2spg, FG: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT. After a short stint with Estudiantes Madrid in 2006, he played at VidiVici Bologna in the 2006-2007 season. He played FIBA EuroCup playing 15 games averaging 6.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 2FGP: 65.4%, 3FGP: 47.1%, FT: 72.2%; and playing15 games in the Italian league averaging 3.1ppg, 2.1rpg. In 2007-2008, he moved to The Deutsche Bank Skyliners playing 10 ULEB Cup games averaging 14.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 85%; and in the German League playing 44 games averaging 13.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 86.2%. In 2008-2009, he continued playing in Frankfurt playing 10 EuroChallenge: games averaging 8.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.0%; and in the German League playing 34 games averaging 8.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 74.6%. In 2009-2010, he played for BC Levski Sophia (Bulgaria-NBL): 1 game: 6pts, 5reb, 2ast, 3steals; Balkan League: 1 game: 3pts, 1reb, 1ast, 2steals; in Oct.'09 moved to Proteas EKA AEL Limassol (Cyprus-Division EuroChallenge: 13 games: 10.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 45.6%, FT: 83.3%: FT-2 (90.9%). Last season, he played for Chalon playing 33 games: 11.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 84.2%. He spoke to Eurobasket about his ex teammate Pascal Roller who recently had his farewell game and with whom he was teammates with from 2007-2009.

How much of a pleasure was it playing with Pascal and having him as teammate?

Pascal was a great leader in all aspects, on and off the court, he led by example. He is the wise man, never getting upset. Always being calm helped everyone around him be calm. It was a great pleasure to play with someone like him. I learned a lot.

You were roommates with him for a time on road trips. What is your fondest memory of him when you two were alone spending time together?

I remember we were speaking about basketball, I was going through a difficult time with the shooting and asked him for advice, and he told me, sometimes he likes when that happens, because the opponents start to forget about him, and the next game it creates more opportunities. The very next game I had a big game mainly because he told me to stay confident and keep shooting.

Was there a more reliable shot in the game of basketball then his jumper? Talk about his great shot and how clutch he was?

Pascal was money. His shot was like a mechanical machine set on the same setting for each time he shoots. Thats how I would describe his shot. I think my greatest memory is when every game we would be running on the fast break and he would sprint while dribbling, and suddenly stop at the three point line, and shoot, while none expected it because it was a fast break and he was sprinting a second ago with the ball. I am sure people noticed that his foot was always one or maybe at the most 2 centimeters from the line. Like a perfectionist.

If you take your shoush/swish shot and combine it with his reliable jumper what do you have?

We would have to rename him Pascal Swisher! Lol.

Talk about that last shot against Bonn game 5 in 2008 where he missed the layup?

This shot can happen to anyone, Pascal was the guy who had to take the last shot, good or bad, that is how it is supposed to be. He was the leader of this team, after that, it is bad luck. It wasn't an easy shot, but I think he was surprised to get this kind of shot as a game winning shot. Either way, the game should of been won before that.

When you combine the organization skyliners and Pascal Roller to what other things could you compare the importance (like for example Larry bird/Celtics back in day)

Kobe and Shaq. When you see one guys name, you automatically think of the other. In this case, you say Skyliners, you think Pascal and vice versa.

How important was Pascal in locker room? What do you remember?

He was the voice of the team. He would calm people when they were upset, he would lead by example. He was a coach on the court.

How did Pascal Roller help you the best on and off the court?

He helped me mature, learn to block some negativity so it would not affect me because when you are young, you easily get caught up in negative thoughts. He helped me learn to not worry so much and put them aside.

If a movie would be made about Pascal what would you call it and what would be best storyline?

He reminds me of the character in the movie Taken. Quiet, smart, a perfectionist, and very skilled, kicked everyone's butt in the movie. But in a Bruce Willis look.

What would you like to say from France to your friend Pascal Roller?

I want to congratulate him on a great career, and thank him for bringing so much to basketball. I will always look upon him with the highest respect. And I also want to thank him for helping me develop as a player.

Thanks Evti for the chat.

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HOLLAND

Hey world whats up - by Gerald RobinsonHey world whats up....wow the weather has really changed out here, I kept saying that the winter this year was nothing compared to years before and I spoke to soon. Up until last week all you really needed was a normal jacket because it hasn't been that cold or rained at all this year. The temperature stayed well above 0 but last week it really went down fast and its been freezing, literally all the lakes and rivers have frozen over and people are skating on the ice. We had the weekend off so I went down to see my grandmother who doesn't live that far from here in Zwolle and it got down to -23 which was a record in her city. Im just hoping it gets warmer soon.

Since the New Year we have had some injury problems on our team which is disappointing because we were playing pretty well. We've had about 4 guys out in the last month, me myself even banged up my leg a little so I have not been playing the last couple of weeks. This is the 1st time in my life I have missed a games due to being hurt so its been tough because I really hate sit out, but I will be back next week. :) The toughest thing is to sit on the sideline and watch your team play and you can't help especially when we played Den Bosch at home and we went into double overtime. Those are the type of games you really want to play in when the game is on the line. The bright side has been watching our young players get better before my eyes, they normally don't play a lot of minutes but have been playing a lot these last few weeks. They work hard everyday in practice and its good to see it transfer onto the court.

We play a Cup Game today against Rotterdam at home so we will be looking to advance to the next round. Talk to you guys soon......G-Rob

ZobAhan experience gave them the win in the last minute - by Maarouf MawloudAl-Mouttahed Tripoli wasnt able to grab an important win from ZobAhan Iran, in the first game of the quarter final series.The game was held in Amshit, Lebanon in presence of Sport Minister in Lebanon Mr.Faissal karami and around 1500 spectators.Zobahan started the game with a 7-0 run, but home team knew how to come back into the game and finished the first quarter with a 7 points lead (21-15).In the second quarter,Mouttaheds players couldnt keep the lead in their hands, especially after moving to 2-3 zone on defense, which allowed the Iranian Team zobahan to show their ability to shoot the long range shots successfully and made 5 consecutive 3 point shots, to finish with a 9 points lead at the end of the first half (31-40).At the beginning of the third quarter, zobahan was trying to keep the lead margin, while Austin Johnson,mouttahed point guard was trying his best with the help of Bassel Bawji and Samer Mechref and they succeed to come back again into the game and finished the 3rd quarter down by 4 points.In the last quarter, zobahan knew that the win in this game will make the semi final of WABA easier for them since they will play the next games on their court, so they tried to contain al mouttahed offense who knew how to get the lead by 1 point before 2 minutes from the end, but the experience of Zobahan players allowed them to grab a very important win with a final result 74-71.Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) from Zobahan had a game high with 29 points added 12 rebounds, while his mate Karam Ahmadian had a great performance with 19 points.From Mouttahed side,Austin Johnson was the best scorer with 22 points added 4 assists,Bassel Bawji,National team player,made a double double with 16 points and 11 rebound,and Samer mechref from Amshit added 12 points.Next game of the series will be held in Iran,20th of this month.

Zob Ahan made the first step towards reaching the WABA League semifinals. They defeated Moutahed in Lebanon to take 1-0 lead in the best-of-three quarterfinal series. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) accounted for 29 points, 15 boards and 3 assists to lead the effort. He also drained a three-pointer late in the game that sealed the win for Zob Ahan. Moutahed entered the game determined. The hosts ensured a 21:15 lead after ten minutes. Zob Ahan however surged ahead late in the first half. They established a 40:31 halftime lead. Zob Ahan maintained the lead throughout the third term. The Iranian team entered the final quarter up by four point 55:51. Moutahed refused to surrender and eventually erased the deficit. But Loren Woods stepped up for the visitors and sealed the win for Zob Ahan. Karam Ahmadian (197-F-77) nailed 19 points, while Aren Davoudichegani (185-PG-86) contributed 11 points in the victory. Austin Johnson (191-G-87, college: Oklahoma) answered with 22 points for Moutahed. Bassel Bawji (203-F/C-89, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Tulsa) had 16 points and 14 boards in the loss.

Hapoel Tel-Aviv was better than the reigning FYROM champion Feni Industri last night 83-76. It was a game of the Balkan league - Round 8. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-15 and later managed to keep the lead for rest of the way. The hosts made 22-of-29 charity shots (75.9 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American Curtis Kelly (205-PF-88, college: Kansas St.) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Corry Carr (192-G/F-75, college: Texas Tech) who added 16 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) responded with 17 points and 7 assists and center Zlatko Gocevski (206-C-82, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Feni Indistrija's coach Emil Rajkovic rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Hapoel Tel-Aviv maintains second position in Group B with 6-2 record. Actually they already sealed this spot, despite there are two more rounds to be played in regular season. The FYR Macedonian champion Feni Indistrija keeps the third place with four games lost. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will play against Ulcinj in the next round. Feni Indistrija will play at home against Zrinjski HT and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game between No.1 Levski and Ulcinj is postponed due to bad wheatear. Levski leads Group B with perfect 7-0 record.

Best players of Israeli National League round 17 - by Eurobasket NewsAmerican-Puerto Rican Ramon Clemente (200-PF-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Kiryat Tivon and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 17.The 26-year old power forward had a double-double of 27 points and fourteen rebounds, while his team edged out Elitzur Ramla (#12, 6-11) 106-105. Kiryat Tivon maintains the 5th position in Israeli National League. Kiryat Tivon is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 9-8 record. Clemente turned to be Kiryat Tivon's top player in his first season with the team. Wichita State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Clemente. Clemente is in league's top in points (8th best: 21.3ppg) and averages solid 1.6bpg and 60.7% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 22-year old American forward Marshall Moses (198-F-89) of Hapoel K/S. Moses impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 37 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Hapoel K/S lost that game 84-91 to the higher-ranked Ironi Nes-Ziona (#6, 9-8). Hapoel K/S is still in a red zone at 13th spot in the standings. 12 lost games are too many comparing to just five victories Hapoel K/S managed to get this year. Moses is a newcomer at Hapoel K/S and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American Marcus Ginyard (196-G/F-87) of Ironi Nahariya (#10). Ginyard got into 30-points club by scoring 34 points in the last round. He went also for eleven rebounds . Despite Ginyard's great performance Ironi Nahariya lost 70-99 to slightly higher-ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (#9, 7-10). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Ironi Nahariya not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 11 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Ginyard could try to bring Ironi Nahariya's a little bit higher in the standings. Ginyard has individually a great season in Israel. After 17 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 22.6ppg (6th best).

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Nuggets' Gallinari could miss up to month with ankle injury - by Eurobasket NewsNuggets' top scorer Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) said he will likely miss four weeks following a left ankle sprain suffered Monday. X-rays also found a chip fracture in his left foot, an injury doctors determined that occurred before Gallo played professional basketball.

Gallinari will remain in a walking boot for three to five days. Treatment will be for a significant ankle sprain.

'Four weeks -- if it can be faster, it's better,' he said today, 'but with these kind of things, you want to take your time and have it heal in the right way.

'I don't want to rush it - I want to take care of myself and make sure it heals in the right way, so I don't have other injuries when I come back.'

It could have been worse. In late January, the Bucks' Andrew Bogut suffered a similar injury to Gallinari - landing on his left ankle and fracturing it. Bogut is out for 8-12 weeks.

The Nuggets have a home back-to-back beginning Wednesday against Dallas, then Thursday against Golden State.

After starting out slow, Gallinari found his touch and became a force for the Nuggets, one of the feel-good stories of this NBA season. The small forward averages 17 points per game and 5.2 rebounds this season and in the past 10 games he had averaged nearly 19 points per game.

Asked who will pick up the slack in Gallinari's absence, coach George Karl said today, 'I think until we get Corey Brewer back, it will be kind of by my feel of the game.'

(It's unclear when Corey Brewer will return - he is with his family, following the passing of his father.)

'Once I get Corey back,' Karl said, :I think you're going to see him get at least a 20-minute hunk of that. I think he's earned that opportunity. But the other 10, 15 minutes and 35 minutes tomorrow I don't know. I mean, they all should be ready to play. Dallas gives us an interesting team and can I go to Julyan Stone?

'I actually thought about playing Jordan Hamilton last night for the 3-ball. Jordan can make a 3. We weren't going to make one last night, but you know, all our rookies are ready to go. But Nene will come back hopefully tomorrow. And how I'm going to take the game is always a guessing game for me. I think Al, Kosta and Nene are going to get the first shot and Bird and Kenneth got to be ready for anything that comes after that.'

In regards to other injuries, guard Arron Afflalo (ankle, toe) is expected to return for the Nuggets on Wednesday, while big man Nene (heel) is a game-time decision.

Center Timofey Mozgov (ankle) is likely out for this week. He is out of his walking boot and is improving.

The 23-year-old Italian has become a key figure in the organization - Denver recently signed Gallo to a four-year, $42 million contract.

'He's a 6-10 person who gets into the lane, gets to the basket and also can create for others,' point guard Ty Lawson said. 'So for him to go down, it's going to be tough for us right now We've got to all come together and make sure we keep one another up.'

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

SerieA Round 20: Montepaschi Siena edges Otto Caserta by two points - by Eurobasket NewsThere were many interesting games last round. The round ended with extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Eleventh-ranked Otto Caserta (8-10) made lots of trouble for first ranked Montepaschi Siena (14-5) on Sunday. The visitors from Siena managed to secure only two-point victory 80-78. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 39-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Montepaschi Siena made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Otto Caserta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Serbian guard Igor Rakocevic (193-78) who scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) chipped in 15 points and 5 rebounds. Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American point guard Andre Collins (183-82, college: Loyola, MD) produced 24 points and 9 assists for the hosts. Defending champion maintains first position with 14-5 record. Otto Caserta at the other side keeps the eleventh place with ten games lost. Montepaschi Siena are looking forward to face Angelico Biella (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Otto Caserta will play against Novipiu CM in Casale and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. Very important is a home loss of third ranked Bennet Cantu (11-8) against sixth ranked Umana Venezia (11-7) on Sunday night. Host Bennet Cantu was defeated by Umana Venezia in a tough game in Cantu 73-78. American-Bulgarian point guard Kiki Clark (173-84, college: St.Peter's) orchestrated the victory by scoring 33 points (!!!). Timothy Bowers contributed with 12 points for the winners. Umana Venezia's coach Andrea Mazzon allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) replied with 22 points and 5 rebounds for Bennet Cantu. Umana Venezia moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Scavolini PS. Bennet Cantu at the other side dropped to the sixth position with eight games lost. They share it with Banco di Sard. and Sidigas AV. Umana Venezia will play against Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bennet Cantu will play against Scavolini Pesaro (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Very important is a home loss of second ranked CS Bologna (12-7) against fifth ranked Armani Milano (12-7) on Sunday night. Host CS Bologna was defeated by Armani Milano in Bologna 80-68. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of CS Bologna. Worth to mention a great performance of Antonis Fotsis who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Armani Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Giuseppe Poeta responded with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Armani Milano moved-up to second place, which they share with defeated CS Bologna. Armani Milano will meet at home Banco di Sard. (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. CS Bologna will play against Vanoli-Braga (#17) in Cremona and hope to secure a win. Sixteenth-ranked Novipiu CM (5-14) made lots of trouble for ninth ranked Cimberio Varese (10-9) in Casale. The visitors from Varese managed to secure only six-point victory 64-58. However their fans expected much easier game. The winners were led by Rok Stipcevic who scored that evening 16 points and 5 assists. Cimberio Varese's coach Carlo Recalcati allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Cimberio Varese maintains ninth position with 10-9 record. Newly promoted Novipiu CM keeps the sixteenth place with 14 games lost. Cimberio Varese's next round opponent will be Lottomatica Roma (#13) at home. Novipiu CM will play against Otto Caserta. Important game to mention about took place in Treviso. Seventh ranked Air Avellino (11-8) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging 12th ranked Benetton Treviso (8-11) 72-71 on Sunday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. The best player for the winners was Jurica Golemac who scored 23 points and 8 rebounds. Air Avellino moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Bennet Cantu and Banco di Sard. Loser Benetton Treviso keeps the twelfth position with 11 games lost. Air Avellino will face Banca Tercas (#15) in Teramo in the next round and are hoping to win another game.

In the last two games of round 20 bottom-ranked Vanoli CR was defeated by Banco di Sard. in Sassari 91-76. Acea Roma beat Fabi Shoes at home 76-69.

There was no surprise in Sassari where 17th ranked Vanoli-Braga (5-14) was defeated by eighth ranked Banco di Sard. (11-8) 91-76 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Banco di Sard.. Vanoli-Braga was better in fourth quarter 20-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Banco di Sard. shot the lights out from three sinking 17 long-distance shots on high 51.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was American point guard Travis Diener (184-82, college: Marquette) who scored 13 points and 9 assists. The other American import guard Drake Diener (196-81, college: De Paul, agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Belgian point guard Beye Tabu-Eboma (190-85) produced 14 points and 9 rebounds and Slovenian forward Marko Milic (201-77) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. Five Banco di Sard. and four Vanoli-Braga players scored in double figures. Banco di Sard. have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Bennet Cantu and Sidigas AV. Vanoli-Braga lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Banco di Sard. will face league's second-placed Armani Milano on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Vanoli-Braga will play against CS Bologna (#3). Top scorers:Vanoli CR: J.Rich 15+3reb+1ast, B.Tabu-Eboma 14+9reb+3ast, D.Lighty 12+3reb+2ast, M.Milic 12+7reb+3ast, D.Cinciarini 11+5reb, J.Perkovic 8+9reb+2astBanco di Sard.: D.Diener 18+5reb+2ast, V.Plisnic 14+4reb+1ast, B.Sacchetti 13+4reb+1ast, T.Diener 13+3reb+9ast, M.Vanuzzo 12+2reb, Q.Hosley 10+5reb+2ast

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both thirteenth ranked Lottomatica Roma and 14th ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro had identical 7-11 record. This time Lottomatica Roma used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Montegranaro 76-69 on Wednesday night. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 27-13 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Lottomatica Roma made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was international swingman Luigi Datome (202-87) who scored 21 points and 9 rebounds. American guard Clay Tucker (196-80, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 12 points and 4 assists. Four Lottomatica Roma players scored in double figures. Lottomatica Roma's coach Marco Calvani used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Serbian guard Ivan Zoroski (195-79) produced 20 points and 4 assists and naturalized Croatian center Sandro Nicevic (210-76, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points respectively for the guests. Lottomatica Roma (8-11) moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Benetton TV. Loser Fabi Shoes Montegranaro keeps the fourteenth position with 12 games lost. Lottomatica Roma will face higher ranked Cimberio Varese (#9) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro will play against Umana Venezia (#4) and will have a slim chance for a victory.Top scorers:Fabi Shoes: I.Zoroski 20+3reb+4ast, S.Nicevic 14+3reb+1ast, C.Karl 13+2reb+1ast, J.McNeal 6+1reb+2ast, F.Di Bella 5+4reb+2ast, T.Kirksay 4+2astAcea Roma: L.Datome 21+9reb+2ast, U.Slokar 13+6reb, C.Tucker 12+4reb+4ast, M.Kakiouzis 10+3reb+1ast, N.Gordic 8+3reb+4ast, J.Varnado 4+2reb

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Bennet Cantu (11-8) against sixth ranked Umana Venezia (11-7) on Sunday night. Host Bennet Cantu was defeated by Umana Venezia in a tough game in Cantu 73-78. Bennet Cantu was ahead by 1 point after three quarters before a 18-12 charge of Umana Venezia, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great shooting night for Umana Venezia especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. American-Bulgarian point guard Kiki Clark (173-84, college: St.Peter's) orchestrated the victory by scoring 33 points (!!!). American guard Timothy Bowers (188-82, college: Mississippi St.) contributed with 12 points for the winners. Umana Venezia's coach Andrea Mazzon allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) replied with 22 points and 5 rebounds and Serbian forward Vladimir Micov (203-85, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Bennet Cantu. Umana Venezia moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Scavolini PS. Bennet Cantu at the other side dropped to the sixth position with eight games lost. They share it with Banco di Sard. and Sidigas AV. Umana Venezia will play against Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bennet Cantu will play against Scavolini Pesaro (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Bennet Cantu: M.Markoishvili 22+5reb, V.Micov 12+7reb+5ast, G.Shermadini 10+4reb, M.Leunen 8+4reb+4ast, G.Basile 7+1reb+1ast, G.Brunner 7+5reb+3astUmana Venezia: K.Clark 33+2reb+1ast, T.Bowers 12+4reb+3ast, G.Rosselli 11+2reb+3ast, A.Young 9+2ast, S.Szewczyk 6+5reb+1ast, T.Fantoni 3+8reb+2ast

Eleventh-ranked Otto Caserta (8-10) made lots of trouble for first ranked Montepaschi Siena (14-5) on Sunday. The visitors from Siena managed to secure only two-point victory 80-78. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 39-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Montepaschi Siena made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Otto Caserta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Serbian guard Igor Rakocevic (193-78) who scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) chipped in 15 points and 5 rebounds. Four Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American point guard Andre Collins (183-82, college: Loyola, MD) produced 24 points and 9 assists and his fellow American import forward Andre Smith (203-85, college: N.Dakota St.) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Defending champion maintains first position with 14-5 record. Otto Caserta at the other side keeps the eleventh place with ten games lost. Montepaschi Siena are looking forward to face Angelico Biella (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Otto Caserta will play against Novipiu CM in Casale and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. Top scorers:Otto Caserta: A.Collins 24+3reb+9ast, A.Righetti 15+3reb, A.Smith 14+7reb, A.Doornekamp 9+8reb+1ast, A.Stipanovic 8+5reb+1ast, K.Fletcher 6+3rebMontepaschi: I.Rakocevic 20+5reb+4ast, B.McCalebb 15+5reb+2ast, D.Andersen 12+3reb, D.Moss 11+4reb, K.Lavrinovic 7+2reb, S.Stonerook 5+4reb+4ast

Very important is a home loss of second ranked CS Bologna (12-7) against fifth ranked Armani Milano (12-7) on Sunday night. Host CS Bologna was defeated by Armani Milano in Bologna 80-68. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of CS Bologna. CS Bologna was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. It was a great shooting night for Armani Milano especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of Greek forward Antonis Fotsis (210-81) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and Greek center Ioannis Bourousis (212-83, agency: FCM) who added 15 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Four Armani Milano players scored in double figures. Armani Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International guard Giuseppe Poeta (190-85) responded with 18 points and 6 rebounds and American guard Chris Douglas-Roberts (201-87, college: Memphis) scored 18 points. Armani Milano moved-up to second place, which they share with defeated CS Bologna. Armani Milano will meet at home Banco di Sard. (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. CS Bologna will play against Vanoli-Braga (#17) in Cremona and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:CS Bologna: C.Douglas-Roberts 18+2reb+2ast, G.Poeta 18+6reb+3ast, A.Gigli 11+7reb+1ast, V.Sanikidze 8+11reb, P.Koponen 8+2reb+2ast, L.Vitali 3+1rebArmani MI: I.Bourousis 15+9reb+1ast, E.Bremer 15+2reb, A.Fotsis 15+11reb+2ast, D.Nicholas 13+2reb+3ast, M.Rocca 6+3reb, S.Mancinelli 6+2reb+2ast

Important game to mention about took place in Treviso. Seventh ranked Air Avellino (11-8) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging 12th ranked Benetton Treviso (8-11) 72-71 on Sunday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Benetton Treviso trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 32-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 71-72 at the end of the game. Air Avellino made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was Slovenian-Croatian forward Jurica Golemac (209-77, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 23 points and 8 rebounds. American-Spanish guard Taquan Dean (193-83, college: Louisville) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Marcus Goree (201-77, college: W.Virginia) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import guard Jobey Thomas (194-80, college: Charlotte) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Air Avellino moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Bennet Cantu and Banco di Sard. Loser Benetton Treviso keeps the twelfth position with 11 games lost. Air Avellino will face Banca Tercas (#15) in Teramo in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Top scorers:Benetton TV: M.Goree 15+12reb+4ast, J.Thomas 14+5reb+1ast, J.Viggiano 9+6reb+1ast, S.Becirovic 9+2reb+2ast, G.Mekel 9+2reb+5ast, B.Ortner 6+3rebSidigas AV: J.Golemac 23+8reb+2ast, T.Dean 20+8reb+1ast, M.Green 17+3reb+6ast, R.Slay 8+7reb+2ast, V.Gaddefors 2+3reb+1ast, M.Soloperto 2+2reb

Sixteenth-ranked Novipiu CM (5-14) made lots of trouble for ninth ranked Cimberio Varese (10-9) in Casale. The visitors from Varese managed to secure only six-point victory 64-58. However their fans expected much easier game. Novipiu CM was ahead by 4 points after three quarters before a 16-12 charge of Cimberio Varese, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 11-5. Cimberio Varese dominated on the defensive end, holding Novipiu CM to just 5 points in third quarter. Cimberio Varese had a 34-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. The winners were led by Croatian point guard Rok Stipcevic (185-86) who scored that evening 16 points and 5 assists and French forward Yakhouba Diawara (201-82, college: Pepperdine) supported him with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Cimberio Varese's coach Carlo Recalcati allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Even a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds by Bosnian swingman Jasmin Hukic (204-79, agency: Beo Basket) did not help to save the game for Novipiu CM. American guard Mustafa Shakur (192-84, college: Arizona) added 14 points for the hosts. Cimberio Varese maintains ninth position with 10-9 record. Newly promoted Novipiu CM keeps the sixteenth place with 14 games lost. Cimberio Varese's next round opponent will be Lottomatica Roma (#13) at home. Novipiu CM will play against Otto Caserta. Top scorers:Novipiu CM: M.Shakur 14+3reb+2ast, J.Hukic 13+10reb+1ast, G.Temple 11+1reb+1ast, S.Pierich 8+3reb, D.Chiotti 5+7reb+1ast, O.Stevic 4+11rebCimberio VA: R.Stipcevic 16+3reb+5ast, Y.Diawara 13+8reb+1ast, T.Rannikko 9+1reb+3ast, J.Talts 8+6reb+2ast, T.Weeden 8+3reb+3ast, K.Kangur 6+9reb+1ast

gschID: 150785

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JUCO

Head Coach Alex Nwora sets Erie CC win record as Kats Down NCCC, 98-77 - by Eurobasket NewsErie Community College head men's basketball coach Alex Nwora won his 254th career game at ECC with the Kats' 98-77 win over Niagara County Community College Saturday afternoon at the Flickinger Center. The 254 wins set the ECC record, previously held by George Killian, who coached the Kats from the 1954-55 to 1968-69 seasons.

The Kats will play Tuesday night in Olean, N.Y., against Jamestown Community College-Cattaraugus Campus.

Courtesy of www.njcaa.org

Basketball Players of the Week - by Eurobasket NewsCoty Clarke (Lawson State CC, Ala.), Desmond Williams (6'7''-F/C) (CC of Rhode Island) and Jamario Clayton (Ocean County College, N.J.) have been named NJCAA Mens Basketball Players of the Week for games Jan. 23-29.

Earning Player of the Week accolades in Division I was Clarke. Williams was named Player of the Week in Division II, while the Division III Player of the Week was Clayton.

DIVISION I PLAYER OF THE WEEKCoty Clarke; Lawson State Community College, Ala.Forward; Birmingham, Ala.; Pinson Valley High SchoolIn the Cougars only game last week, Clarke (6 7) displayed his versatile abilities with his second triple-double performance of the season against Gadsden State CC (Ala.). Leading Lawson State to a 91-77 victory, Clarke scored 18 points on 8-of-9 shooting from the field. The sophomore also posted 22 rebounds and 12 assists in the contest. Clarke and the Cougars return to action Monday when they host Southern Union State CC (Ala.).

DIVISION II PLAYER OF THE WEEKDesmond Williams; Community College of Rhode IslandGuard; Torrington, Conn.; Torrington High SchoolWilliams (6 4) came up big for the Knights on their road trip last week. The freshman scored 22 points and snagged seven steals defensively in CCRIs 71-63 win over Nassau CC (N.Y.). In the Knights 76-53 victory over Suffolk CCC (N.Y.), Williams totaled 21 points, five rebounds and six assists. Williams and the Knights have the week off and will pick things back up Tuesday at Gateway CC (Conn.).

DIVISION III PLAYER OF THE WEEKJamario Clayton; Ocean County College, N.J.Guard; Durham, N.C.; Southern High SchoolDespite his height, Clayton (5 6) played larger than life last week in Ocean Countys three games. The sophomore recorded 17 points, five rebounds and five assists against Camden CC (N.J.), but the Vikings fell short 70-60. En route to an 86-69 win over Cumberland CC (N.J.), Clayton hit 12-of-23 shots from the field for 31 points. Clayton led the Vikings to a 71-66 win over Atlantic Cape CC (N.J.) with a triple-double including 29 points, 13 boards and 13 assists. Ocean County and Clayton will travel to Montgomery CCC (Pa.) Thursday before returning home to face Northampton CC (Pa.) Saturday.

BK Almaty too good for BK Atyrau - by Eurobasket NewsBK Almaty recorded two straight victories over BK Atyrau in D1 championship. The first game ended with a 105:81 success of BK Almaty. Roman Kshniakin (205-C-82) erupted for 26 points to pace the charge. Aleksandr Kuznetsov (193-G-84) added 19 points in the winning effort. Dmitro Antonets (197-F-88) answered with game-high 31 points for BK Atyrau. Next game was also dominated by BK Almaty. They clinched an 81:77 win to improve at 7-5 record. Roman Kshniakin stepped up for the visitors once again scoring 14 points. Vasili Savchenko (189-G-87) and Aleksandr Pashkov (191-G-85) added 12 points each in the win. Dmitro Antonets had 19 points for BK Atyrau as they fell at 0-16 record. BC Astana added 13th win to their record as they held off Kaspiy 60:49. Maxim Voyeykov (197-F-88) finished with 18 points to pace the winners. Rawle Marshall (201-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Oakland) added 11 points for the league leaders. Dzhanysh Adiev answered with 14 points for Kaspiy.

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KOSOVO

Trepca will play friendly match against Tirana - by Dren ShportaLeader of BKT Superliga, KB Trepca Mitrovice, will play a friendly match against Tirana. The game should be played in Albanian capital. The game was scheduled after the start of BKT Superliga was delayed for two weeks because of extremly low temperatures in Kosovo.

This information was confirmed from club board member Naim Hajrizi, who was also the former player of KB Trepca Mitrovice for the daily Sport newspaper. We will play against Tirana and we are hoping to arrange two more friendly matches until the start of the season, said Hajrizi.

The greens from Mitrovica are hoping to break Sigal Prishtinas record of six championship titles in a row. They have finished the first part of the season in the first place and were the only team that has beaten Sigal Prishtina this season. KB Trepca Mitrovice has same points as Sigal Prishtina and they will play reigning champions in the first match of the second part of the season.

Kosova stays without Williams - by Dren ShportaAmerican center, Bryant Williams (205-C-89, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Oklahoma City), left his club Kosova Vushtrri. He signed for them just a week ago after he was refused from Trepca. Kosovas club director, Sabri Parduzi, said that he could not enure to his new team.

Without 22 year old center, vushtrrians will have to rely on their own forces. They are in the sixth position on the classification table and are hoping to keep that place to secure a play-off qualification. Kosova from Vushtrri has registered 4 victories and 10 defeats during winter season, but they lost their main player Besnik Azemi who signed for Trepca. Kosova will host Drita in the first match of the second part of the season.

Zob Ahan made the first step towards reaching the WABA League semifinals. They defeated Moutahed in Lebanon to take 1-0 lead in the best-of-three quarterfinal series. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) accounted for 29 points, 15 boards and 3 assists to lead the effort. He also drained a three-pointer late in the game that sealed the win for Zob Ahan. Moutahed entered the game determined. The hosts ensured a 21:15 lead after ten minutes. Zob Ahan however surged ahead late in the first half. They established a 40:31 halftime lead. Zob Ahan maintained the lead throughout the third term. The Iranian team entered the final quarter up by four point 55:51. Moutahed refused to surrender and eventually erased the deficit. But Loren Woods stepped up for the visitors and sealed the win for Zob Ahan. Karam Ahmadian (197-F-77) nailed 19 points, while Aren Davoudichegani (185-PG-86) contributed 11 points in the victory. Austin Johnson (191-G-87, college: Oklahoma) answered with 22 points for Moutahed. Bassel Bawji (203-F/C-89, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Tulsa) had 16 points and 14 boards in the loss.

ZobAhan experience gave them the win in the last minute - by Maarouf MawloudAl-Mouttahed Tripoli wasnt able to grab an important win from ZobAhan Iran, in the first game of the quarter final series.The game was held in Amshit, Lebanon in presence of Sport Minister in Lebanon Mr.Faissal karami and around 1500 spectators.Zobahan started the game with a 7-0 run, but home team knew how to come back into the game and finished the first quarter with a 7 points lead (21-15).In the second quarter,Mouttaheds players couldnt keep the lead in their hands, especially after moving to 2-3 zone on defense, which allowed the Iranian Team zobahan to show their ability to shoot the long range shots successfully and made 5 consecutive 3 point shots, to finish with a 9 points lead at the end of the first half (31-40).At the beginning of the third quarter, zobahan was trying to keep the lead margin, while Austin Johnson,mouttahed point guard was trying his best with the help of Bassel Bawji and Samer Mechref and they succeed to come back again into the game and finished the 3rd quarter down by 4 points.In the last quarter, zobahan knew that the win in this game will make the semi final of WABA easier for them since they will play the next games on their court, so they tried to contain al mouttahed offense who knew how to get the lead by 1 point before 2 minutes from the end, but the experience of Zobahan players allowed them to grab a very important win with a final result 74-71.Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) from Zobahan had a game high with 29 points added 12 rebounds, while his mate Karam Ahmadian had a great performance with 19 points.From Mouttahed side,Austin Johnson was the best scorer with 22 points added 4 assists,Bassel Bawji,National team player,made a double double with 16 points and 11 rebound,and Samer mechref from Amshit added 12 points.Next game of the series will be held in Iran,20th of this month.

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LITHUANIA

Baltai Kaunas signs Jonas Maciulis - by Eurobasket NewsJonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85) is back to Lithuania. The 27-year-old G/F penned a deal with Baltai Kaunas for rest of the season. Maciulis recovered from serious knee injury (ACL torn), which he suffered last year. Maciulis played for Armani Jeans Milano. He had 9.4 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 25 games in SerieA before the injury. In Euroleague, Maciulis added 10.8 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 6 games. Jonas Maciulis joined Milano in 2009. Before that, he spent four years with Zalgiris Kaunas. He played for the Lithuanian National Team from 2006 to 2010. At the World Championship 2010 in Turkey Maciulis had 9 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 1.4 spg for 9 games. He helped Lithuania to win the Bronze at this event.

First game of the LNBP Finals was played last night. Halcones Rojos outplayed Toros 87-62 taking 1-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-seven and teams will meet today again. Toros is the defending champion from 2011.The game was mostly controlled by Halcones Rojos. Toros managed to win second period 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of Venezuelan power forward Luis Bethelmy (200-86) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 8 rebounds. International guard Paul Stoll (178-85) contributed with 8 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American swingman Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV) answered with 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and American-Nigerian forward Ike Ofoegbu (205-85, college: SMU, agency: Paris Global Sports) added 15 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Toros. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.

Nikola Pekovic, Timberwolves hold off Jimmer's furious rally in 86-84 win over Kings - by Eurobasket NewsNikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) had 23 points and 10 rebounds, and Michael Beasley added 17 points and 14 boards to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to an 86-84 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night in their first game without the suspended Kevin Love.

Ricky Rubio had 14 assists and five steals and Derrick Williams scored seven of his 14 points in the final four minutes to give the Timberwolves their third straight win.

DeMarcus Cousins had 10 points and 11 rebounds while battling foul trouble for most of the game. Jimmer Fredette scored all 13 of his points in the final period. But Tyreke Evans and Cousins combined to shoot just 8 for 26 to snap their three-game winning streak.

The Kings had a frenetic shot to win their fourth straight game in the final seconds, but Donte Green's 3-pointer from the corner missed at the buzzer.

Evans finished with 11 points on 5-of-13 shooting, while Thornton scored 21 of his 22 points in the first three quarters.

The Kings trailed 69-60 to start the fourth, and coach Keith Smart left his starting backcourt of Thornton and Evans on the bench and put his trust in Fredette.

It's been a difficult rookie season for the heralded 10th overall pick out of BYU. He's had difficulty keeping up with the quickness at the NBA level and finding his shot. After clanking his first two attempts of the game Tuesday night, Fredette found his range.

He buried three 3-pointers, scored off a steal and fed Green for a dunk that got Sacramento back in it.

Green's 3-pointer tied it at 82 with 1:09 to go, but Williams came back with a big 3-pointer in the corner to give the Wolves just enough.

While the rest of his Wolves teammates were struggling from the field in the third quarter, missing 13 of the 16 shots they took, Pekovic was a force. He made all six of his shots, three of them coming on dunks. One came on a between-the-legs feed from Rubio and another on a pretty spin to the baseline past Cousins.

The second-year man from Montenegro also lowered his shoulder and ran right over Cousins for a layup, and picked Jason Thompson at halfcourt and finished the play with a nifty finger roll to bring the crowd to its feet.

Love was suspended Monday for stepping on Rockets forward Luis Scola last Saturday. That meant the Timberwolves were missing his 25 points, 13.7 rebounds and NBA-leading 39.4 minutes for the game against the Kings and on Wednesday night at Memphis.

Williams got the start, getting an opportunity for extended playing time that has been increasingly rare for the No. 2 overall pick. He played 37 combined minutes the previous four games combined, stuck behind Love and a healthy Michael Beasley in the Minnesota frontcourt.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

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NBA

Oklahoma City 119, Golden State 116 - by Milord NikolicKevin Durant had 33 points and 10 rebounds and the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a career-high 48 points by Monta Ellis for a 119-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night. Oklahoma City's Russell Westbrook had 31 points and seven assists, but also turned it over nine times. James Harden scored 19 off the bench and Daequan Cook added 17 for Oklahoma City (20-5), which is 2-1 to start its five-game trip and remains the NBA's best team. David Lee had a triple-double with 25 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for the Warriors (8-14). Stephen Curry was 7 of 9 for 16 points and 10 assists. Ellis was 18 of 29 and scored 30 points in the first half on 12-of-17 shooting. He had 40 through three quarters, but the Warriors led by just 93-91. After trailing throughout the fourth, the Thunder finally took a 113-112 lead on Westbrook's jumper from the top of the key with 1:48 left. After a travel by Curry, Westbrook fed Durant for a slam and 115-112 lead. Dorell Wright made one of two free throws. Durant missed a long 3-pointer and Ellis gave Golden State a 116-115 lead with a three-point play with 22.3 seconds to go. But Durant, who had seven assists, answered with an 18-foot bank shot eight seconds later. Ellis missed a 27-footer and the Thunder had survived a second close road scare. The teams combined to go 20 of 47 on 3-pointers. Oklahoma City was 11 of 26 and Golden State was 9 of 21.

Carmelo Anthony out 1-2 weeks - by Eurobasket NewsNew York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) is out approximately 1-2 weeks after straining his right groin, the team announced Tuesday.

The Knicks will also continue to be without Amare Stoudemire, who went to Florida to mourn the loss of his brother, Hazell, who died in a car crash Monday morning.

'I am humbled by all of the thoughts and prayers I have received,' Stoudemire said in a statement released by the team Tuesday. 'Thank you for all of the support. I am going to take a few days to be with my family and grieve the loss of my big brother, Hazell Stoudemire. Although it is not clear to me now, I hope to make some good come from our tragedy.'

Said teammate Tyson Chandler, who reached out to Stoudemire before practice Tuesday, of the forward's absence: 'At this point I just really want him to take as much time as he needs. Basketball is one thing, life and family is completely another thing. I hope the best out of this situation with his family. It's a tough one.'

Anthony scored two points and played just five minutes in Monday's 99-88 win over the Jazz. He threw an alley-oop to Chandler midway through the first quarter and started to limp shortly after.

He called timeout on the next play and went to the bench before heading to the locker room. Anthony did not return to the game but did rejoin the bench in street clothes. He was not available to reporters after the game.

Jeremy Lin shined without the Knicks' two star players in the lineup, turning in 28 points and eight assists in his first career start.

New York is 0-3 this season without Anthony in the lineup. The forward has suffered injuries to his left wrist, right ankle and right thumb this season. He sat out against Oklahoma City Jan. 14 after hurting his wrist and ankle two nights before in Memphis.

Anthony tried to play through the injuries but struggled with his shooting. In the six following games, Anthony shot 40 for 126 from the field before deciding to sit two games in late January to rest his ailments. He is averaging 22.3 points this season.

The Knicks overcame Utah with a balanced attack and incredible play from Lin. Steve Novak also scored a season-high 19 points and hit five 3-pointers. The Knicks play at Washington Wednesday.

'We just got to give a total team effort the way we did last night,' said Chandler, the Knicks last standing star player. 'When you have guys out you have an opportunity for another guy to step in.'

Anthony could possibly return when the Knicks host the Dallas Mavericks on national television Feb. 19, which also starts a stretch where New York plays four games in five nights, ending in Miami against LeBron James and the Heat.

On the bright side, sitting with the groin injury could give Anthony some time to rest his other pains as well.

' (That's) if you're looking for a silver lining,' D'Antoni said. 'That won't make me sleep better at night, but that does sound good to me.'

Spurs waive Malcolm Thomas, Rockets waive Jeff Adrien - by Eurobasket NewsThe San Antonio Spurs have waived forward Malcolm Thomas (6'9''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: San Diego St.). A rookie from San Diego State, Thomas has appeared in just three games this season. He has totaled one point, one assist and three rebounds.

The Rockets have waived Jeff Adrien (6'7''-F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Connecticut). Adrien was on a non-guaranteed contract and had to be moved to make room to sign Greg Smith (6'10''-C-91, college: Fresno St.). The news is first reported by Jonathan Feigen/Houston Chronicle (via Twitter).

Gladness made six appearances, averaging 0.3 points in 3.5 minutes a game. The move leaves the Heat with 14 on the active roster, perhaps freeing room to add a free agent. Miami has reportedly expressed interest in center Joel Przybilla.

Przybilla played in 36 games for the Portland Trail Blazers and Charlotte Bobcats last season, averaging 1.8 points and 4.0 rebounds. A former lottery pick in 2000, Przybilla has played for four teams in his career.

The Heat's other non-guaranteed contracts are rookie guard Terrel Harris and veteran center Eddy Curry, who will likely be retained.

Davis averaged 1.9 points and 1.8 rebounds on .370 shooting in 8.7 minutes in 15 games for Memphis this season. The 31-year-old holds NBA career averages of 2.3 points and 1.7 rebounds on .373 shooting in 7.4 minutes in 67 games over four seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, Houston Rockets, Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies.

A native of Salem, Ore., Davis was originally signed by Memphis as a free agent on Dec. 10, 2011.

The Grizzlies roster now stands at 14 players.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Nuggets' Gallinari could miss up to month with ankle injury - by Eurobasket NewsNuggets' top scorer Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) said he will likely miss four weeks following a left ankle sprain suffered Monday. X-rays also found a chip fracture in his left foot, an injury doctors determined that occurred before Gallo played professional basketball.

Gallinari will remain in a walking boot for three to five days. Treatment will be for a significant ankle sprain.

'Four weeks -- if it can be faster, it's better,' he said today, 'but with these kind of things, you want to take your time and have it heal in the right way.

'I don't want to rush it - I want to take care of myself and make sure it heals in the right way, so I don't have other injuries when I come back.'

It could have been worse. In late January, the Bucks' Andrew Bogut suffered a similar injury to Gallinari - landing on his left ankle and fracturing it. Bogut is out for 8-12 weeks.

The Nuggets have a home back-to-back beginning Wednesday against Dallas, then Thursday against Golden State.

After starting out slow, Gallinari found his touch and became a force for the Nuggets, one of the feel-good stories of this NBA season. The small forward averages 17 points per game and 5.2 rebounds this season and in the past 10 games he had averaged nearly 19 points per game.

Asked who will pick up the slack in Gallinari's absence, coach George Karl said today, 'I think until we get Corey Brewer back, it will be kind of by my feel of the game.'

(It's unclear when Corey Brewer will return - he is with his family, following the passing of his father.)

'Once I get Corey back,' Karl said, :I think you're going to see him get at least a 20-minute hunk of that. I think he's earned that opportunity. But the other 10, 15 minutes and 35 minutes tomorrow I don't know. I mean, they all should be ready to play. Dallas gives us an interesting team and can I go to Julyan Stone?

'I actually thought about playing Jordan Hamilton last night for the 3-ball. Jordan can make a 3. We weren't going to make one last night, but you know, all our rookies are ready to go. But Nene will come back hopefully tomorrow. And how I'm going to take the game is always a guessing game for me. I think Al, Kosta and Nene are going to get the first shot and Bird and Kenneth got to be ready for anything that comes after that.'

In regards to other injuries, guard Arron Afflalo (ankle, toe) is expected to return for the Nuggets on Wednesday, while big man Nene (heel) is a game-time decision.

Center Timofey Mozgov (ankle) is likely out for this week. He is out of his walking boot and is improving.

The 23-year-old Italian has become a key figure in the organization - Denver recently signed Gallo to a four-year, $42 million contract.

'He's a 6-10 person who gets into the lane, gets to the basket and also can create for others,' point guard Ty Lawson said. 'So for him to go down, it's going to be tough for us right now We've got to all come together and make sure we keep one another up.'

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

Tuesday's games review (6): Pekovic, Timberwolves hold off Jimmer's furious rally in 86-84 win over Kings - by Eurobasket NewsMilwaukee B. - Phoenix Suns 105-107Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara) hit a driving layup with 5 seconds left, giving the Phoenix Suns a 107-105 victory over Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night. Nash, who also celebrated his 38th birthday Tuesday, had 18 points and 11 assists. Michael Redd (6'6''-G-79, college: Ohio St.) scored 14 points and came away with a win against his former team, but it wasn't easy. The Suns blew a big lead in the second half and had to rally at the end. Marcin Gortat scored 21 points and Jared Dudley added 19 for the Suns, who have won three straight. Drew Gooden scored a season-high 25 for the Bucks, who have lost three straight. Mike Dunleavy and Ersan Ilyasova added 17 points each for the Bucks. Brandon Jennings was held to three points on 1-for-4 shooting. With the game tied at 98, Jennings hit a 3-pointer with 3:11 left - his first points of the game, on only his second shot. Dudley hit a pair of free throws to cut the lead to one, then Nash hit a 3-pointer for a 103-101 lead with 2:05 left. Gooden scored on a driving layup to tie it, but Gortat hit a jumper. Ilyasova was fouled on the other end and hit a pair of free throws to tie it again. The Suns called timeout with just over 20 seconds left, and Nash dribbled near halfcourt for several seconds before slicing through the Bucks' defense and scoring to give Phoenix the lead. The Bucks couldn't get a shot off on their final possession. It was an emotional return to Milwaukee for Redd, whose 11-year Bucks career ended with a series of injuries on a big, expiring contract. Now coming off the bench for the Suns, Redd played a key role in a second-quarter surge to take control of the game. Phoenix led 67-50 at halftime, tying the Bucks' season high for most points allowed in a half - a mark Milwaukee set only three days beforehand against Chicago. The victory made for a happy homecoming for Redd, who said before the game that it felt strange staying in a hotel, instead of at home, in Milwaukee. When he got to the arena, he said an equipment manager had to stop him and tell him he was walking toward the wrong locker room. Redd didn't know what kind of reception he would receive from the fans. 'I know where I stand with our fan base,' he said before the game. 'I've always been appreciative of the fans, in the good times and the bad times, Milwaukee has great fans. In 11 years, they've seen me grow up and seen me get married, see me have kids. So I have nothing but love.' The Bucks showed a short video tribute during the first time out of the game. Fans responded with a warm ovation and Redd waved back. Redd entered the game later in the first quarter - then began to look like his old self in the second quarter, scoring eight straight points for the Suns. Redd's turnaround jumper gave the Suns a 46-32 lead with 8:46 left before halftime, and it only got worse from there for Milwaukee. But the Bucks made a big third-quarter surge as the Suns suddenly went cold. Milwaukee cut the lead to 86-79 on a 3-pointer by Dunleavy with 1:15 left in the quarter but Redd answered with a driving layup. Phoenix led 88-81 going into the fourth quarter. Dunleavy hit a pair of 3 pointers early in the fourth, helping the Bucks cut the lead to one. Stephen Jackson then hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key, giving Milwaukee a 92-90 lead. Milwaukee later led 96-93 on a jumper by Jackson, but Channing Frye hit a long jumper and Dudley made a 3-pointer to give the Suns a 98-96 lead with 4:07 left. *Courtesy of www.thestate.com

Golde State W. - Oklah.City T. 116-119Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) hit a go-ahead bank shot with 14.2 seconds remaining, and the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder overcame career performances by Monta Ellis and David Lee to beat the Golden State Warriors 119-116 on Tuesday night. Durant finished with 33 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, and Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) added 31 points and seven rebounds to give Oklahoma City its fourth win in five games. After rallying for a thrilling overtime victory at Portland a night earlier, the Thunder had to sweat out another frantic finish. Ellis scored a career-high 48 points, and Lee had 25 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his second career triple-double. Ellis and Brandon Rush both missed 3-pointers in the closing seconds to tie or take the lead. Ellis pulled up just outside the paint and floated a runner while getting fouled by Westbrook, bringing the announced crowd of 17,971 mostly basketball-starved Bay Area fans roaring to their feet. He completed the three-point play to give Golden State a 112-108 lead with 3:53 remaining. Daequan Cook followed with a 3-pointer, Westbrook hit a long jumper and Durant had a powerful two-hand slam to put Oklahoma City back in front 115-112 in an instant. After Dorell Wright made one of two free throws, Durant missed a contested 3-pointer. The ball found Ellis' hands, and the tattoo-tattered guard never gave it back. No need. Ellis darted to the basket off a pick-and-roll with Lee, threw his body into center Ibaka and shielded the ball for a right-handed layup that started another three-point play. Ellis made the free throw to put Golden State ahead with 22.3 seconds to play. Then, the two-time NBA scoring leader simply showed who was best. After missing a finger roll through a crowd of defenders, Durant got a second chance when the ball trickled out of bounds off Golden State. He didn't take long to redeem himself, coming off a screen and banking in an 18-footer off the glass with 14.2 seconds left. Ellis missed a 3-pointer on the other end, Westbrook followed with two free throws and Golden State had one last chance to send it to overtime. But Ellis inbounded the ball on the final play, and Rush missed a 3-pointer in the corner at the final buzzer. Ellis finished 18 for 29 from the field and was 9 of 10 on free throws. He also had seven rebounds and two assists - clearly not enough against an Oklahoma City team that's plowing through the Western Conference. The West Coast swing of the Thunder's long road stretch came full circle. A trip that began with a 120-109 victory at Golden State on Jan. 27 hit one of its more difficult stretches. After a 111-107 comeback victory in overtime a night earlier at Portland, Oklahoma City struggled early to find its rhythm. The Warriors sprinted out to an 8-0 lead in the first 1:58 of the game as Ellis set the tone with his shoot-first-and-shoot-often mode. The Warriors dynamic shooting guard started the game 8 for 10 from the floor and often finished in acrobatic fashion. The Thunder put together patches of strong play but never could pull away. Oklahoma City clamped down on defense - if only for a moment - to overpower Golden State, which shot 66.7 percent in the opening quarter. Durant stole an off-balance pass from Ellis and handed off to James Harden for a layup to highlight an 11-3 run that put the Thunder ahead 53-43 late in the second. With the outcome slipping from reach and the usually amped-up crowd falling silent, Ellis put on a spectacular display of ball-handling and hard-driving layups, including spinning past Ibaka and flicking in a windmill-style floater to start a three-point play. He followed with another jumper to give him 30 points in the opening half, slicing Oklahoma City's lead to 59-57. The break did little to slow Golden State's undersized shooting guard. Or anybody, really. Ellis slipped through screens and past every defender the Thunder threw his way, igniting a fast-pace push to the second half. He started a three-point play with a scintillating layup over Westbrook and Wright also hit a 3-pointer to highlight a run that put the Warriors in front 80-68 in the third quarter. Oklahoma City answered with a swift and stunning rally. Harden intercepted a pass from Lee in the back court, stepped up and swished a shot from the beyond the arc for the last of three straight Thunder 3-pointers. Durant also had a three-point play to even the score at 91 before Curry hit a jumper to put the Warriors ahead entering the fourth. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Miami Heat - Cleveland C. 107-91One stingy defensive stretch was enough to carry the Miami Heat past LeBron James' former team once again. Might have gotten the Heat prepped for a daunting road stretch as well. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) scored 26 points, James added 24 and the Heat said farewell to their home floor for nearly two weeks by beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 107-91 on Tuesday night. Miami's lead was only a point late in the third quarter, before the Cavaliers missed 17 of their next 19 shots and the Heat finally pulled away. 'It was definitely going to be necessary,' James said of the late defensive push, one that ensured Miami would beat Cleveland for the fifth time in six meetings since the two-time MVP left the Cavaliers for the Heat. 'And that's how we want to close out games.' Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) finished with 15 points for the Heat, who have won 11 of their last 13 games and stayed within a game of Chicago in the Eastern Conference race, both teams tied in the loss column with six. Mario Chalmers and Udonis Haslem each scored 14 for Miami, which starts a stretch of five road games in seven nights at Orlando on Wednesday, then caps the six-game trip with a visit to Cleveland on Feb. 17. The Heat are 19-6, the best 25-game start in team history. 'We just had to grind it out, grind it out - until it was our time to pull away,' Wade said. Antawn Jamison scored 25 points and had nine rebounds for Cleveland, which got 17 from Alonzo Gee, and 16 points, six rebounds and six assists from Kyrie Irving. Anderson Varejao had 11 points and 11 rebounds for the Cavaliers, who were outscored 29-19 in the fourth and got a 4 for 23 shooting night from their reserves. 'I thought we competed,' Cavaliers coach Byron Scott said. 'I thought our starters played pretty well. Our second unit just couldn't make baskets, couldn't throw anything in the ocean. You're not going to win a lot of games when you're not get any contributions but again a lot of it had to do with the injuries. I'm not trying to make any excuse. You've got to give them a lot of credit. They're a good basketball team.' Facing a number of injury issues, Cleveland had only 11 players in uniform for the game. Daniel Gibson (neck infection), Tristan Thompson (sprained left ankle) and Anthony Parker (strained lower back) were not with the club, and earlier this week the team waived Mychel Thompson - who had started the Cavs' last three games and scored six points in their win over Dallas on Saturday. Short-handed or not, the Cavs gave the Heat all they wanted - just as they did in Miami two weeks ago. Jamison had 20 points in the first half, his best opening half since March 6, 2010. And whenever it seemed like Miami was about to take off on a run, like when it had a quick 15-8 lead early or a 43-33 edge midway through the second quarter, Cleveland had an answer. That trend continued in the third. 'We did a good job,' Varejao said, 'until the fourth quarter.' An 18-9 run by the Cavs to open the second half gave them a 66-63 edge, before the Heat put together a pair of quick bursts - dunks by James punctuating both. He capped a 9-2 run by catching a long pass from Haslem in transition for a five-point lead, and after Cleveland clawed back within one, Chalmers hit a 3-pointer and James followed a missed layup by Battier with a one-handed slam for a 78-72 edge entering the fourth. With that, Miami had taken Cleveland's best shot. 'That team is improved, they play hard and they compete,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'They're a tough team to put away.' Starting with that mini-flurry by Miami to close the third, the Cavaliers were outscored 19-6 over an 8-minute span. Wade made back-to-back hoops to give Miami what was its biggest lead at 92-78 midway through the fourth. 'We were in the game for most of the game,' Irving said. 'In the fourth quarter I felt that we could make a run but we were just not hitting shots. They weren't falling. It happens.' And now comes the trip that Miami sees as an opportunity. It's a rare six-game swing around the East for Miami, which starts in Orlando and then goes to Washington, Atlanta, Milwaukee and Indiana, the last three of those in consecutive nights, before wrapping up at the arena James called home for his first seven NBA seasons. 'I was just talking to D-Wade about it. I think it's going to be great,' James said. 'One thing about us, we love these road trips. They bring us together even more. It's just us. It's the 15 guys, the coaching staff, the training staff and we all come together. It's a big test for us.' *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Minnesota T. - Sacramento K. 86-84Nikola Pekovic (6'11''-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) had 23 points and 10 rebounds, and Michael Beasley (6'10''-F-89, college: Kansas St.) added 17 points and 14 boards to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to an 86-84 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night in their first game without the suspended Kevin Love. Ricky Rubio had 14 assists and five steals and Derrick Williams scored seven of his 14 points in the final four minutes to give the Timberwolves their third straight win. DeMarcus Cousins had 10 points and 11 rebounds while battling foul trouble for most of the game. Jimmer Fredette scored all 13 of his points in the final period. But Tyreke Evans and Cousins combined to shoot just 8 for 26 to snap their three-game winning streak. The Kings had a frenetic shot to win their fourth straight game in the final seconds, but Donte Green's 3-pointer from the corner missed at the buzzer. Evans finished with 11 points on 5-of-13 shooting, while Thornton scored 21 of his 22 points in the first three quarters. The Kings trailed 69-60 to start the fourth, and coach Keith Smart left his starting backcourt of Thornton and Evans on the bench and put his trust in Fredette. It's been a difficult rookie season for the heralded 10th overall pick out of BYU. He's had difficulty keeping up with the quickness at the NBA level and finding his shot. After clanking his first two attempts of the game Tuesday night, Fredette found his range. He buried three 3-pointers, scored off a steal and fed Green for a dunk that got Sacramento back in it. Green's 3-pointer tied it at 82 with 1:09 to go, but Williams came back with a big 3-pointer in the corner to give the Wolves just enough. While the rest of his Wolves teammates were struggling from the field in the third quarter, missing 13 of the 16 shots they took, Pekovic was a force. He made all six of his shots, three of them coming on dunks. One came on a between-the-legs feed from Rubio and another on a pretty spin to the baseline past Cousins. The second-year man from Montenegro also lowered his shoulder and ran right over Cousins for a layup, and picked Jason Thompson at halfcourt and finished the play with a nifty finger roll to bring the crowd to its feet. Love was suspended Monday for stepping on Rockets forward Luis Scola last Saturday. That meant the Timberwolves were missing his 25 points, 13.7 rebounds and NBA-leading 39.4 minutes for the game against the Kings and on Wednesday night at Memphis. Williams got the start, getting an opportunity for extended playing time that has been increasingly rare for the No. 2 overall pick. He played 37 combined minutes the previous four games combined, stuck behind Love and a healthy Michael Beasley in the Minnesota frontcourt. *Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Boston C. - Charlotte B. 94-84Even though most of the focus coming into Tuesday night's game was on Paul Pierce and his surpassing Boston Celtics great Larry Bird for the No. 2 spot on the franchise's all-time scorers list, the Celtics did have to actually play a game. And the Charlotte Bobcats, as bad as they have been all season, were not simply going to show up and get thumped. Once Pierce and the Celtics got past his record-climbing night in the third quarter, Boston took firm control of the game and came away with a 94-84 win. Boston (14-10) extended its winning streak to a season-best five in a row. Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) turned in yet another stellar game, finishing with 22 points on 10-for-15 shooting along with seven rebounds. Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) got it going in the second half, which is when he scored 15 of his 17 points. And then there was Rajon Rondo doing what Rondo does best - rack up double-doubles. He had 10 points and 13 assists for his fourth double-double this season. And then there was the man of the night, Paul Pierce. He needed 10 points to surpass Bird for the No. 2 spot on the C's all-time scorer's list. Pierce finished with 15 points, and now has a career total of 21,797 points. He also had eight rebounds and nine assists, coming within a play or two of his first triple-double this season. As for the Bobcats (3-22), losers of 12 in a row now, former UConn star Kemba Walker had a solid return to New England with 16 points and seven rebounds. *Courtesy of www.csnne.com

Indiana P. - Utah Jazz 104-99Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) scored 12 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter, and Darren Collison (6'0''-PG-87, college: UCLA) had 25 points to lead the Indiana Pacers to a 104-99 win over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night. Collison shot 10 of 14 from the floor and added five assists for the Pacers, who bounced back from an 85-81 loss to Orlando on Saturday. Paul Millsap had 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Jazz, who lost their second straight game at the end of a back-to-back. The Jazz trailed 84-77 at the end of the third quarter and scored eight straight to take a lead, but were never able to pull away. Granger scored to give Indiana back the lead at 86-85. After Derrick Favors scored, Granger came right back and made it 88-87. C.J. Miles gave the Jazz the lead again, but Granger came back again to make it 90-89. The Jazz took a 95-92 lead with 3:47 left and Roy Hibbert was fouled on a shot next to the post and went to the line to tie the game. After Paul George made a 3-pointer to put the Pacers up 98-95, the Jazz missed two shots and turned the ball over before Collison made it 100-95. Granger sealed it at the foul line to give the Pacers a five-point lead with 10.6 seconds left. The Pacers took a 13-point lead at one point in the second quarter, and led 57-46 at halftime. They opened the second half on a 12-4 run as Collison scored six points and George four, including a dunk, to make it 69-50 with 8:49 left in the third. *Courtesy of www.boston.com

76ers assign Craig Brackins to D-League - by Eurobasket NewsThe Philadelphia 76ers announced that they have assigned second-year forward Craig Brackins (6'10''-F-87, college: Iowa St.) to their NBA Development League affiliate, the Maine Red Claws. Brackins has appeared in eight games for the Sixers this season.

Brackins (6-10, 230) was assigned to the D-League three times last season with the Sixers old affiliate, the Springfield Armor. In 18 games for the Armor, he averaged 20.1 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 37.6 minutes per game while shooting 44.0% from the floor, 24.7% from 3-point range and 72.7% from the line. He was tied for the eighth highest scoring average of any D-League player last season.

Johnson (5-10, 180) appeared in 15 games for the Hornets this season, averaging 1.8 points and 1.5 assists in 7.9 minutes. The University of Alabama-Birmingham product has appeared in 195 career games (102 starts) with the Austin Toros of the NBA D-League since 2007, averaging 8.0 points and 4.4 assists. In four games this season with Austin, he averaged 14.8 points and 4.8 assists. The New Orleans native appeared in 46 games (all starts) for the Toros last season, averaging 12.3 points and a career-high 6.0 assists.

Summers (6-8, 240) appeared in 15 games (six starts) with the Hornets this season, averaging 4.5 points and 1.5 rebounds in 13.9 minutes of play. Summers was drafted in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft (35th overall) by the Detroit Pistons. In 81 career games (six starts) he has averages of 3.4 points and 1.0 rebounds in 10.0 minutes with Detroit and New Orleans. The Georgetown product signed with Montepaschi Siena in Italy in July of 2011, but parted ways with the team in October after averaging 4.0 points in four games with the team.

The Hornets roster now stands at 13.

Courtesy of www.sportsnola.com

Barkley, Shaq to draft, coach rookie-sophomore squads in All-Star Game - by Eurobasket NewsThe NBA announced Tuesday (Wednesday, PHL time) that it is changing the format of the Rookie-Sophomore Rising Stars game, introducing mixed rosters and NBA legends Charles Barkley (6'6''-F-63, college: Auburn) and Shaquille O''Neal as general managers and coaches.

Barkley and O'Neal, currently NBA analysts on the TNT network, will each draft a nine-man squad from a pool of rookies and sophomores chosen by NBA assistant coaches.

The live draft will air on Thursday, February 16 (February 17, PHL time), with Kenny Smith serving as commissioner.

Then on February 24 (February 25, PHL time), as part of All-Star weekend, the two squads will face off against each other, with Barkley and O'Neal calling the shots.

Joining the two coaches will be their fellow analysts. Former NBA coach Mike Fratello, will be Barkley's assistant coach, and former NBA player and general manager Steve Kerr (6'3''-G-65, college: Arizona), will be alongside O'Neal.

In previous years, the rookie-sophomore game had selections of rookies pitted against selections of sophomores.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Mikhail Prokhorov will sell Nets if he wins Russian presidency - by Eurobasket NewsMikhail Prokhorov, Russia's third- richest man, said hell give $17 billion of his $18 billion fortune to charity if he defeats Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and three other candidates to win the presidency next month.

'Il'l sell everything, all my assets when I become president and donate almost all of the money to charity', Prokhorov said during a talk show with fellow candidate Vladimir Zhirinovsky that was broadcast on state-run television late.

Prokhorov, who owns the New Jersey Nets basketball team in the U.S. and stakes in Russian metals companies United Co. Rusal (486) and Polyus Gold International Ltd., said hed need the remaining $1 billion for personal expenses after life in the Kremlin.

'Il'l need something to live on', Prokhorov, 46, said.

Putin, the clear favorite in polls, is seeking to garner more than 50 percent of the vote to avoid a runoff against the second-place finisher in his bid to return to the presidency after four years as premier. He was elected president in 2000 and 2004 and stepped down in 2008 in favor of his protg, Dmitry Medvedev, to comply with constitutional term limits.

A Jan. 28-29 poll of 3,000 likely voters showed Putin winning 46 percent of the March 4 poll, followed by Zhirinovsky and Communist leader Gennady Zyuganov at 9 percent, Prokhorov at 5 percent and former Putin ally Sergei Mironov at 3 percent, the Moscow-based Public Opinion Foundation, known as FOM, said on its website today, without giving a margin of error.

'My main objective is to make it to a second round', Prokhorov said on a campaign stop in the Siberian city of Novosibirsk on Jan. 27, according to the state-run RIA Novosti news service.

Courtesy of www.bloomberg.com

Billups done for season with torn Achilles - by Eurobasket NewsLos Angeles Clippers guard Chauncey Billups (6'3''-PG-76, college: Colorado) will miss the rest of the season after tearing his left Achilles tendon.

The injury occurred with 5:48 left in the fourth quarter of an overtime win against Orlando when Billups attempted a cross-over move, but fell to the floor without contact from another player and needed help off.

He had an MRI at the Cleveland Clinic on Tuesday which confirmed the injury and will return to Los Angeles on Thursday for further evaluation. A date for surgery has not been determined.

In 10 games played for the Clippers this season, Jones averaged 0.6 points and 1.7 rebounds per game.

In his five years in the pros, the forward out of South Florida has averaged 3 points and 2.3 boards per game. He played for the Hawks (2006-09), Pacers (2009-11) and Clippers (2011-12).

The Clippers roster now stands at 14 players.

Courtesy of www.foxsportswest.com

NEW YORK LIVES IN A MUST-LIN SITUATION - by Dimitris KatsionisAs sports fans we love underdog stories and we are witnessing one at MSG the last days. Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-89) spent all his career being discarded and overlooked. The Asian-American (born in California)and Harvard-educated point guard has put a spark back at the Garden and became the ''talk of the town'' since the Knicks won two in a row although they played Jazz yesterday without Amare Stoudemire (due to his brother's death) and Carmello Antohny (he got injured in the first minutes).

It's obvious in the last two games,with Lin on the court,that N.Y. performs as a real team which plans and executes plays. D'Antohny found in the 23-year old point guard,true playmaking abilities. A man who can trully run the pick'n roll and direct the traffic on the court. As a result utilized role players on offense,by getting the ball on the right spot.Jarred-boooedd-Jeffries put 22pts & 18 boards at the two last games,Steve Novak scored 19 pts against Jazz and Bill Walker was feeling more comfortable with a true point guard on the floor. Lin produced right ball movement and clever deception of defenders plus 15 assists.Remember,the Knicks were 25th in assists percentage before those two games.. It's excpected that Amare Stoudemire will benefit like no other Knick will from Lin's presence on the starting lineup due to the youngster's ability on pick'n roll.

Lin's game can be improved through the season. Probably he won't continue put numbers like the 28-8 he got last night. The opponents will study and decode him now,and the Lin will not have the advantage of the surprise anymore. For sure he has to improve his shot and his footwork on defense (although he played exceptional D on Deron Williams). Now he has a big chance to be the starting point guard (it's a fact that N.Y. crowd picks Lin instant of Baron Davis)of D'Antohnys team but let's wait to see him at the next games. Now the Knicks have the youngest backcourt in the league with the oldest being Bill Walker who is only 24.. Some people think that it would be difficult for the 23-year old guard to stay grounded with all this euphoria and some others that he represents all the Asian-Americans in the States and has to play for them.Read his answer... ''I cant even play for myself. The right way to play is not for others and not for myself, but for God. I still dont fully understand what that means. Im still learning to be selfless and submit myself to God and give the game up to Him. My audience is God..''

Inaugural All-Star Game scheduled for March 31-April 1in Halifax, Nova Scotia - by Eurobasket NewsThe National Basketball League of Canada and the Halifax Rainmen are excited to unveil the NBL Canada All-Star logo and announce that the inaugural event, brought to you by Rogers Communications Inc., will be held March 31-April 1 in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

NBL Canada All-Star Weekend is a celebration of basketball that unites the entire NBL Canada family and provides our fans with an engaging and interactive experience, said John Kennedy, NBL Canada Commissioner.

The weekend will consist of two-days of exciting events, from an All-Star breakfast, family activities; to a three-point shoot out, slam-dunk contest, legends game and of course the All-Star Game.

'We are excited to be bringing this historic event to Halifax, Nova Scotia,' said Andre Levingston, President & CEO of the Halifax Rainmen and President of NBL Canada. 'Halifax has long been considered as the basketball capital of Canada. We could not dream of a better place to celebrate the inaugural All-Star Weekend than in Nova Scotia, where the dream and vision of NBL Canada began.'

Stoglin's 27 lead Maryland to 64-62 victory over Clemson - by Eurobasket NewsTerrell Stoglin (6'1''-G) scored 27 points and helped Maryland hold off a late Clemson rally in a 64-62 victory on Tuesday night.

The Terrapins (14-9, 4-5 Atlantic Coast Conference) looked like they were in control, ahead 53-39 with 7:55 to go. That's when the Tigers (11-12, 3-6) went on a 19-6 run to cut the lead to a point on Devin Booker's two foul shots.

But Alex Len (7'1''-C) made a bucket and Stoglin followed with two foul shots to put Maryland out front 63-59.

Clemson was down 64-62 with 1.7 seconds left, but Andre Young's (5'9''-G-90) desperation halfcourt heave bounced off the rim and the Terps broke their 2-game losing streak with their first ACC road win this season.

Young led the Tigers with 15 points and made four 3-pointers.

Courtesy of www.wistv.com

Evansville defense stops No. 17 Creighton 65-57 - by Eurobasket NewsCreighton coach Greg McDermott rubbed his eyes, looking for an answer as to why his team is suddenly struggling.

His son, Doug, is just as perplexed after a second straight sub-par shooting game.

Evansville's Colt Ryan (6'5''-G/F-90) hit a 17-footer to break a 56-56 tie with 3:08 to play, and the 17th-ranked Bluejays blew a seven-point second-half lead in a 65-57 upset Tuesday night.

'We have to get ourselves right,' the Creighton coach said. 'Look, every team in the country goes through stretches like this. Sometimes it's in November, sometimes it's in December. You hope it's not in February, but that's where we are right now and we've got to get it fixed.'

This certainly didn't look like the same Bluejays who seemed so dominant just a week ago.

They came into Tuesday's game with the nation's No. 1 field goal percentage (51.2), the No. 1 3-point percentage (44.8) and a top 10 ranking in overall scoring (81.0 points per game).

But after shooting just 42.1 percent in a loss to Northern Iowa on Saturday that ended their 11-game winning streak, Creighton (21-4, 11-3 Missouri Valley Conference) was even worse against the Purple Aces.

It was a season-low 18.2 percent (4 of 22) from 3-point range, had a season-worst 57 possessions and made only 4 of 20 shots over the final 15:52.

Not surprisingly, the Bluejays have lost consecutive games for the first time all season.

'We had some good shots at the end of the game, but we just didn't execute on offense,' Doug McDermott (6'7''-F-92) said after scoring 21 points. 'We had some communication issues, too, but give them credit. They played hard.'

Evansville finally figured out how to close a game Tuesday night --- with timely shooting and near perfect defense.

It was such a stunning turnaround for a team that had lost three of four that hundreds of students rushed the court in celebration.

'We had lost so many games because we were not listening,' said senior swingman Kenneth Harris (6'6''-G/F), who had 15 points. 'Tonight, we just came out and paid attention to the details.'

For Evansville (12-12, 7-7), it was a remarkable turnaround.

The Aces had lost six times this season by three or fewer points and were coming an abysmal loss Saturday at Southern Illinois. By playing one of their best defensive games this season, Evansville ended a six-game losing streak to Creighton, ended a stretch of three losses in four days and got its second Top 25 upset in two seasons. Evansville beat No. 23 Butler last season.

It wasn't a perfect game for Evansville.

Ryan finished with 14 points on 3-of-12 shooting, none from 3-point range. Ryan Sewell had 12 points and seven rebounds, and there were the two stretches where Creighton looked like, well, its usually strong shooting self.

'Our execution could have been better, but I'm not sure our effort could have been,' Simmons said. 'I thought we made a lot of plays out there with extra effort and that's what it takes to win.'

After a 12-4 first-half run left Creighton in a 31-21 hole with 3:27 to play, the Bluejays closed the half on a 10-2 run and had a chance to take the lead with a 60-foot heave that fell short.

They finally took the lead when McDermott knocked down a 5-footer early in the second half and used a 6-0 run to make it 48-41.

Then the Aces cranked up the pressure.

They scored five straight points to stay close and tied it at 50 when Ned Cox picked off a rebound and drove in for a layup with 8:18 left.

Creighton rebuilt a 56-52 lead with 5:23 to go, but the Aces had an answer for that, too.

'Something just wasn't there tonight.' Doug McDermott said. 'There were times we got stops and we couldn't do anything with it. It was frustrating.'

Courtesy of www.boston.com

No.3 Ohio State beats Purdue 87-84 - by Eurobasket NewsWilliam Buford (6'6''-G-90) scored a career-high 29 points and capped his night with a pivotal dunk in the final minute to power No. 3 Ohio State past hot-shooting Purdue 87-84 on Tuesday.

The win was Ohio State's 39th in a row at home - since losing to Purdue two years ago at Value City Arena.

Buford scored 21 points in the second half to carry the Buckeyes (21-3, 9-2 Big Ten) while All-America Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F-92) and point guard Aaron Craft (6'2''-G-91) were on the bench with foul trouble. He scored seven straight points for Ohio State as it took the lead for good, then had a dunk with 39 seconds left that sealed it.

D.J. Byrd (6'5''-G/F-90), averaging 6.5 points a game, had a career-best 24 for the Boilermakers (15-9, 5-6), while Kelsey Barlow (6'5''-G-91) and Lewis Jackson each had 14 and Robbie Hummel added 13.

Sullinger had 18 points and Deshaun Thomas (6'7''-F-91) and Craft 13 added apiece for the first-place Buckeyes, who have won six straight and eight of nine.

No more than three points separated the teams for the entire second half until Buford went off down the stretch.

After a first half that featured brilliant outside shooting and sparkling passing, the last 20 minutes were dominated by physical play, lots of fouls and near hand-to-hand combat under the basket.

The Buckeyes finally got some traction with Sullinger and Craft on the bench.

Buford, the lone senior on the roster, was the triggerman.

With the score tied at 73 and 4:38 left, he swished a shot from the top of the key to give the Buckeyes the lead for good. At the other end, Barlow's shot was blocked by Ohio State's Sam Thompson. Buford then hit another long jumper for a 77-73 lead.

After Hummel missed a 3-pointer, Buford took a pass in the backcourt from substitute point guard Shannon Scott, stepped back, and hit a high, arcing 3 to make it 80-73 with 2:54 left.

Purdue drew to five points on Jackson's drive through traffic at 1:53.

With 1:07 left, Sullinger went back to the bench after being hurt on a rebound attempt. Byrd, who was fouled on the play, missed the first but hit the second to make it 80-76.

Craft then hit a free throw before Buford tipped away a loose ball at the defensive end and raced the length of the court for a dunk with 39 seconds left to give Ohio State enough room to outlast two late 3s.

Purdue was coming off perhaps its worst game of the season, a 78-61 loss at home to Indiana. Coach Matt Painter said after that debacle that he was disappointed in his team's effort. He certainly wasn't after the close battle with Ohio State.

Both teams shot better than 60 percent from the field and from behind the arc in the first half. Ohio State was 14 of 22 (64 percent) to Purdue's 14 of 23 for 61 percent. On 3-pointers, the Boilermakers were 7 of 10 - with Byrd making all 5 he attempted - and the Buckeyes were 5 of 8 (63 percent).

Ohio State scored the first seven points only to have Purdue score the next seven. Ahead 24-23, the Buckeyes went on a 12-0 run with Craft scoring seven points.

But long-distance marksmanship bailed out the visitors. Ryne Smith hit a 3 before Jackson whizzed past a defender for a layup and Hummel was fouled by Sullinger behind the arc, hitting all three free throws to cap an 8-0 run and tie it at 38.

'I told somebody we were going to blow them out today. I just felt it coming,' said Lamb, who finished with 18 points in a 78-58 win Tuesday night. 'I knew it was coming for some reason. I don't know why.'

In their toughest Southeastern Conference game so far, the Wildcats grabbed their 16th straight win and 49th straight home victory.

'We have this little swagger. We just want to go out there and play hard and win,' said freshman Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93), who added 16 points. 'We're very capable of winning a national championship if we keep playing how we're playing.'

The Wildcats (24-1, 10-0) matched their best start in league play since 2005 thanks to three freshmen starters who've jelled into a formidable defense to go along with their high-powered offense.

'We play together so well - we enjoy playing together on offense and defense. We communicate. We just have fun out there,' said freshman Marquis Teague, who had 12 points and a career-best 10 assists.

Freshman Michael Gilchrist (6'7''-F-93) added 13 points and 13 rebounds. Coach John Calipari compared the forward to his biggest star when he coached at Memphis.

'He reminds me of Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis),' Calipari said. 'He's tougher on himself than I am on him.'

Florida (19-5, 7-2) saw its seven-game winning streak snapped. Kenny Boynton (6'2''-G-91) led the Gators with 18 points, but the team with the nation's most three-pointers this season went 6 of 27 from behind the arc and shot 34.9 percent overall.

Buford, the only senior on the roster, scored a career-high 29 points and capped his night with a pivotal dunk in the final minute to lead the Buckeyes past hot-shooting Purdue 87-84.

I just got good looks,' Buford said. 'I was taking them and fortunate enough to knock them down. I wasn't thinking about my shots, I was just shooting the ball like my teammates have been telling me to do. That was about it.'

The win was Ohio State's 39th in a row at home - since losing to Purdue two years ago at Value City Arena.

Buford scored 21 points in the second half to carry the Buckeyes (21-3, 9-2 Big Ten) while All-America Jared Sullinger and point guard Aaron Craft were on the bench with foul trouble. He scored seven straight points for Ohio State as it took the lead for good, his dunk with 39 seconds left sealed it.

Some fans have been critical of Buford's play in recent weeks as he struggled to put two good games together.

But his coach never wavered in supporting him.

I haven't ever worried about Will,' Thad Matta said. 'Maybe not every shot's been falling for him. But I've got confidence in him and I'll never lose it.'

Sullinger had 18 points and Deshaun Thomas and Craft 13 added apiece for the first-place Buckeyes, who have won six straight and eight of nine.

It was a battle throughout, however.

Sometimes you have to find a way to win,' Craft said. 'And we did that tonight.'

D.J. Byrd, averaging 6.5 points a game, had a career-best 24 for the Boilermakers (15-9, 5-6), while Kelsey Barlow and Lewis Jackson each had 14 and Robbie Hummel added 13.

Purdue was coming off perhaps its worst game of the season, a 78-61 loss at home to Indiana. Coach Matt Painter said after that debacle that he was disappointed in his team's effort. He certainly wasn't after the close battle with Ohio State.

I thought we played well enough to win,' he said after watching his team shoot 52 percent from the field and 58 percent (11 of 19) on 3-pointers. 'We just didn't get a couple of breaks at the end.'

No more than three points separated the teams for the entire second half until Buford went off down the stretch.

After a first half that featured brilliant outside shooting and sparkling passing, the last 20 minutes were dominated by physical play, lots of fouls and near hand-to-hand combat under the basket.

The Buckeyes finally got some traction with Sullinger and Craft on the bench and Buford was the triggerman.

With the score tied at 73 and 4:38 left, he swished a shot from the top of the key to give the Buckeyes the lead for good. At the other end, Barlow's shot was blocked by Ohio State's Sam Thompson. Buford then hit another long jumper for a 77-73 lead.

After Hummel missed a 3-pointer, Buford took a pass in the backcourt from substitute point guard Shannon Scott, stepped back, and hit a high, arcing 3 to make it 80-73 with 2:54 left.

Purdue drew to five points on Jackson's drive through traffic at 1:53.

With 1:07 left, Sullinger went back to the bench after being hurt on a rebound attempt. Byrd, who was fouled on the play, missed the first but hit the second to make it 80-76.

Craft then hit a free throw before Buford tipped away a loose ball at the defensive end and raced the length of the court for a dunk with 39 seconds left to give Ohio State enough room to outlast two late Purdue 3s.

All of the criticism Buford had been hearing was suddenly a distant memory.

W.Washington and Alaska-Anch. will both take long win streaks and Top 20 national rankings into a GNAC basketball showdown Thursday at Bellingham.

The game will have conference, regional and national implications.

W.Washington brings a No. 15 rank and a seven-game win streak into the contest, while the Seawolves have won six in a row and are ranked 17th in the latest NABC poll released Tuesday.

The winner will finish the night in first place in the GNAC and very likely will be the No. 1 ranked team in the first NCAA Division II West Regional poll that comes out next Wednesday.

The team that eventually earns the No. 1 ranking will earn the right to host the NCAA post-season tournament though if UAA ends up No. 1, the regional would be split in two four-team sub-regionals with the No. 2 ranked team hosting as well.

The two are the only West Region teams ranked in the NABC Top 25 poll this week and are a virtual lock to be ranked 1-2 in the first regional poll.

The two squads each feature two players ranked in the Top 25 in this week's national statistical report.

UAA's Taylor Rohde (6'9''-F/C-90), this week's GNAC Player-of-the-Week, ranks 23rd nationally in scoring (20.1) and seventh in field goal percentage (62.9) and is the GNAC leader in both categories.

The Seawolves' Travis Thompson ranks fourth nationally in assist/turnover ratio (3.26) and ranks second in the GNAC in total assists (4.8) trailing only Saint Martin's Brady Bomber (5.0).

Rory Blanche of W.Washington is 21st nationally in field goal percentage (59.9) and the Vikings' John Allen ranks 12th in free throw percentage (90.3).

Team-wise, W.Washington is 11th in scoring (83.4), but UAA is eighth in scoring margin (14.7) and ninth in three-point percentage (41.3). It also ranks second in assist/turnover ratio (1.56) and fourth in assists (20.0)

The only other Top 10 ranked teams in a national category are Seattle Pacific, which is fifth in scoring defense (58.2) and ninth in field goal percentage (38.6); Northwest Nazarene, which is fifth in three-pointers (9.9) and sixth in free throw percentage (77.6); Montana State Billings, which is seventh in three-pointers (9.7) and Cent.Washington which is third in blocked shots (6.0).

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NEW ZEALAND

BJ Anthony suspended for ten days - by Eurobasket NewsSkycity Breakers forward Benny Anthony (198-F-88) will sit out ten days after a breach of team protocol. Anthonys breach of the players own expectations and standards has led to a decision from within the team to have Anthony take the time out to consider his commitment to the current Australian National Basketball League campaign.

The team driven suspension is supported by club management and coaching staff, with Head Coach Andrej Lemanis passing the news on to Anthony early this week. The 23 year old power forward was unfit to contribute fully to practice on Saturday after a late night the evening prior and as a consequence will sit out all team practices, games and community work up to and including Thursday 16th February.

Anthony will miss both games against Wollongong in that time, with Josh Bloxham travelling to Wollongong with the team this Friday for Saturday nights encounter with the Hawks.

D1 Round 6: Qatar Sports Club is defeated by Al Arabi in a derby game - by Eurobasket NewsThere will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in D1.

The most interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Doha: Al Arabi (#3) and Qatar Sports Club (#8). Al Arabi (4-2) smashed visiting Qatar Sports Club (0-6) by 16 points 93-77. Al Arabi made 24-of-26 free shots (92.3 percent) during the game, while Qatar Sports Club only scored seven points from the stripe. 25 personal fouls committed by Qatar Sports Club helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Sierra Leonean guard Abdulai Jalloh (188-86, college: JMU) had a double-double by scoring 43 points (!!!), 13 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American swingman William Byrd (201-85, college: Ark.-Pine Bluff) chipped in 12 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American guard Temi Soyebo (183-84, college: NC-Wilmington) with 20 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals. Al Arabi maintains third position with 4-2 record having just two points less than leader Al Rayyan, which they share with Al Gharrafah. Qatar Sports Club at the other side still closes the standings with six games lost. Al Arabi's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena Al Gharrafah. Another interesting game was again a derby between two teams from Doha: As Sadd (#2) and Al Ahli (#6). Al Ahli was smashed at home by 24 points 59-83 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. American center Michael Southall (210-82, college: La-Lafayette) notched a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds to lead the effort and Djibril Thiam supported him with 16 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Even 22 points by American guard Cameron Crisp (192-81, college: Tenn Tech) did not help to save the game for Al Ahli. As Sadd have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 5-1 record behind leader Al Rayyan. Al Ahli lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Al Wakrah. As Sadd's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena Al Rayyan. Another interesting game was again a derby match of two local teams from Doha: Al Rayyan (#1) and Al Jaysh (#3). Al Jaysh was smashed at home by 23 points 63-86 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Al Jaysh. The best player for the winners was Yasseen Ismail who scored 25 points and 8 rebounds. Al Rayyan's coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Baker Ahmad who recorded 21 points and 7 rebounds. Undefeated Al Rayyan (6-0) have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with a perfect record of 6 victories in a row. Loser Al Jaysh dropped to the fifth place with three games lost. Al Rayyan's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha As Sadd. The game in Al Wakrah supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Al Gharrafah (4-2) played at the court of 6th ranked Al Wakrah (1-5). Al Gharrafah did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 87-67. It was a good game for Boney Watson who led his team to a victory with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Al Gharrafah moved-up to third place, which they share with Al Arabi. Al Wakrah at the other side keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Al Gharrafah's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha Al Arabi.

The game in Al Wakrah supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Al Gharrafah (4-2) played at the court of 6th ranked Al Wakrah (1-5). Al Gharrafah did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 87-67. Al Gharrafah outrebounded Al Wakrah 51-24 including a 36-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for American guard Boney Watson (183, college: Sam Houston St.) who led his team to a victory with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. International center Omar Abdelkader (206-83) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Senegalese guard Sobilhaj Abdu (197) replied with 24 points and American guard Darren Kelly (195-78, college: Texas) added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists in the effort for Al Wakrah. Al Gharrafah moved-up to third place, which they share with Al Arabi. Al Wakrah at the other side keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Al Gharrafah's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha Al Arabi. Top scorers:Al Wakrah: S.Abdu 24+4reb+2ast, D.Kelly 16+6reb+6ast, M.Souleye 14+7reb+3ast, W.Ghanim 9+4reb+1ast, K.Tharid 4+3reb, M.Muftah 0Al Gharrafah: B.Watson 25+7reb+6ast, O.Abdelkader 21+12reb+3ast, I.Gueye Sarr 14+23reb+2ast, O.N'Diaye 8+5reb+3ast, M.Abdullah Ali 8+1reb+1ast, M.Faraj 6+3reb+1ast

The most interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Doha: Al Arabi (#3) and Qatar Sports Club (#8). Al Arabi (4-2) smashed visiting Qatar Sports Club (0-6) by 16 points 93-77. Al Arabi made 24-of-26 free shots (92.3 percent) during the game, while Qatar Sports Club only scored seven points from the stripe. 25 personal fouls committed by Qatar Sports Club helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Sierra Leonean guard Abdulai Jalloh (188-86, college: JMU) had a double-double by scoring 43 points (!!!), 13 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American swingman William Byrd (201-85, college: Ark.-Pine Bluff) chipped in 12 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American guard Temi Soyebo (183-84, college: NC-Wilmington) with 20 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals and Senegalese Oumar Seck produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 16 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Al Arabi maintains third position with 4-2 record having just two points less than leader Al Rayyan, which they share with Al Gharrafah. Qatar Sports Club at the other side still closes the standings with six games lost. Al Arabi's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena Al Gharrafah. Top scorers:Qatar: O.Seck 22+16reb, T.Soyebo 20+9reb+9ast, M.Okoro 16+10reb, A.Sa'eed 12+3reb, W.Salameh 4+2reb, M.Ghareeb 3+4astAl Arabi: A.Jalloh 43+13reb+5ast, M.Atif 18+2reb+3ast, W.Byrd 12+13reb+3ast, A.Mofunanya 11+13reb, F.Abu Faisal 4, K.Masoud Al Nasr 3

Another interesting game was again a derby between two teams from Doha: As Sadd (#2) and Al Ahli (#6). Al Ahli was smashed at home by 24 points 59-83 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. As Sadd players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. American center Michael Southall (210-82, college: La-Lafayette) notched a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds to lead the effort and Senegalese forward Djibril Thiam (208-86, college: Wyoming) supported him with 16 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Four As Sadd players scored in double figures. Even 22 points by American guard Cameron Crisp (192-81, college: Tenn Tech) did not help to save the game for Al Ahli. Gambian forward Mahamoud Jabbi (200-87, college: Binghamton) added 10 points and 13 rebounds. As Sadd have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 5-1 record behind leader Al Rayyan. Al Ahli lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Al Wakrah. As Sadd's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena Al Rayyan. Top scorers:Al Ahli: C.Crisp 22+3reb+2ast, A.Okosun 15+10reb, M.Jabbi 10+13reb+3ast, I.Obeid Al Siddeequ 6+4reb+5ast, H.Zaidan 6+4reb+1ast, M.Hamad 0+2rebAs Sadd: D.Mousa 21+2ast, M.Southall 16+12reb, D.Thiam 16+4reb+5ast, M.Yousef 13+5reb+2ast, A.Saad 8+5reb+6ast, K.Suliman 6+8reb+5ast

Another interesting game was again a derby match of two local teams from Doha: Al Rayyan (#1) and Al Jaysh (#3). Al Jaysh was smashed at home by 23 points 63-86 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Al Jaysh. Al Rayyan dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Al Jaysh's 34. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Yasseen Ismail (204-80) who scored 25 points and 8 rebounds. International forward Tanguy Ngombo (197-84) chipped in a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. Four Al Rayyan players scored in double figures. Al Rayyan's coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was international forward Baker Ahmad (199-86) who recorded 21 points and 7 rebounds and naturalized Lebanese guard Fadi Hani (184) added 10 points and 5 assists respectively. Al Rayyan (6-0) have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with a perfect record of 6 victories in a row. Loser Al Jaysh dropped to the fifth place with three games lost. Al Rayyan's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha As Sadd. Top scorers:Al Jaysh: B.Ahmad 21+7reb+3ast, B.Marone 12+4reb, F.Hani 10+4reb+5ast, A.Turki 8+5reb, A.Zibadra 6+4reb, J.De Ria 5+5reb+3astAl Rayyan: Y.Ismail 25+8reb+2ast, T.Ngombo 18+11reb+3ast, M.Saleem 14+2reb, E.Ali 14+4reb+1ast, C.Leslie 6+1reb, S.Abdullah Mohammed 4+6reb+3ast

gschID: 167531

D1 Round 7: Al Arabi is defeated by Al Gharrafah in a derby game - by Eurobasket NewsThe Regular Season in D1 just ended.

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Doha: Al Gharrafah (#4) and Al Arabi (#3). Al Gharrafah (5-2) won against visiting Al Arabi (4-3) 90-78. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Al Gharrafah forced 25 Al Arabi turnovers and outrebounded them 48-37 including a 20-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. 27 personal fouls committed by Al Arabi helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for American guard Boney Watson (183, college: Sam Houston St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. International swingman Ousseynou N'Diaye (196-85, agency: Court Side) helped adding 14 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. At the losing side American-Sierra Leonean guard Abdulai Jalloh (188-86, college: JMU) responded with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Al Gharrafah moved-up to second place, which they share with As Sadd. Al Arabi at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with Al Jaysh. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Another exciting game was again a derby between two teams from Doha: Al Rayyan (#1) and As Sadd (#2). Al Rayyan (7-0) won against visiting As Sadd (5-2) 79-69. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of As Sadd. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Chauncey Leslie (183-81, college: Iowa) who led the winners and scored 28 points. Yasseen Ismail accounted for 12 points and 13 rebounds. Senegalese forward Djibril Thiam (208-86, college: Wyoming) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds for As Sadd in the defeat. Undefeated Al Rayyan have an impressive series of six victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 7-0 record. As Sadd at the other side keeps the second position with two games lost. They share it with Al Gharrafah. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Another exciting game was again a derby match of two local teams from Doha: Al Ahli (#6) and Qatar Sports Club (#8). Qatar Sports Club was crushed at home by 17 points 62-79 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Augustine Okosun fired a double-double by scoring 31 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Oumar Seck produced a double-double by scoring 26 points, 16 rebounds and 7 assists for lost side. Al Ahli maintains sixth place with 2-5 record. Qatar Sports Club lost their seventh game in a row. They still closes the standings with seven games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Fifth ranked Al Jaysh (4-3) crushed at home 7th ranked Al Wakrah (1-6) by 20 points 80-60, which is the biggest margin this round. Worth to mention a great performance of Fadi Hani who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 8 rebounds. Al Jaysh's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Al Jaysh moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Al Arabi. Al Wakrah at the other side keeps the seventh position with six games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Doha: Al Gharrafah (#4) and Al Arabi (#3). Al Gharrafah (5-2) won against visiting Al Arabi (4-3) 90-78. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Al Gharrafah forced 25 Al Arabi turnovers and outrebounded them 48-37 including a 20-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. 27 personal fouls committed by Al Arabi helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for American guard Boney Watson (183, college: Sam Houston St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. International swingman Ousseynou N'Diaye (196-85, agency: Court Side) helped adding 14 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. At the losing side American-Sierra Leonean guard Abdulai Jalloh (188-86, college: JMU) responded with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and American-Nigerian forward Alvin Mofunanya (203-87, college: Fair Dickinson, agency: Dream Team Management) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Four Al Arabi players scored in double figures. Al Gharrafah moved-up to second place, which they share with As Sadd. Al Arabi at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with Al Jaysh. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Al Gharrafah: B.Watson 33+9reb+3ast, I.Gueye Sarr 20+12reb+2ast, O.N'Diaye 14+8reb+4ast, O.Abdelkader 12+8reb+1ast, M.Abdullah Ali 7+5reb+1ast, A.Hassan 3+4rebAl Arabi: A.Jalloh 20+6reb+5ast, A.Mofunanya 18+12reb, M.Atif 17+1reb+8ast, W.Byrd 15+10reb+2ast, K.Masoud Al Nasr 3+5reb, F.Abu Faisal 3+1reb+1ast

Another exciting game was again a derby between two teams from Doha: Al Rayyan (#1) and As Sadd (#2). Al Rayyan (7-0) won against visiting As Sadd (5-2) 79-69. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of As Sadd. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Chauncey Leslie (183-81, college: Iowa) who led the winners and scored 28 points. The former international power forward Yasseen Ismail (204-80) accounted for 12 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side. Four Al Rayyan players scored in double figures. Senegalese forward Djibril Thiam (208-86, college: Wyoming) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds and American center Michael Southall (210-82, college: La-Lafayette) added 16 points and 9 rebounds respectively for As Sadd in the defeat. Al Rayyan have an impressive series of six victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 7-0 record. As Sadd at the other side keeps the second position with two games lost. They share it with Al Gharrafah. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Al Rayyan: C.Leslie 28+4reb+3ast, E.Ali 18+7reb, T.Ngombo 14+6reb+1ast, Y.Ismail 12+13reb+1ast, M.Saleem 7+2reb+4ast, H.Mohamed 0As Sadd: D.Thiam 19+6reb+3ast, K.Suliman 18+7reb+1ast, M.Southall 16+9reb+2ast, D.Mousa 9+1reb+2ast, A.Saad 7+4reb+4ast, M.Yousef 0+1reb+1ast

Another exciting game was again a derby match of two local teams from Doha: Al Ahli (#6) and Qatar Sports Club (#8). Qatar Sports Club was crushed at home by 17 points 62-79 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Al Ahli looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. Nigerian center Augustine Okosun (210-86, college: Northwood Fl.) fired a double-double by scoring 31 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Gambian forward Mahamoud Jabbi (200-87, college: Binghamton) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists. Four Al Ahli players scored in double figures. Senegalese Oumar Seck produced a double-double by scoring 26 points, 16 rebounds and 7 assists and Nigerian forward Michael Okoro (206-89, agency: Court Side) added 19 points and 9 rebounds respectively for lost side. Al Ahli maintains sixth place with 2-5 record. Qatar Sports Club lost their seventh game in a row. They still closes the standings with seven games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Al Ahli: A.Okosun 31+11reb+2ast, J.Mahamoud 20+12reb+8ast, C.Cameron 18+3reb+10ast, Z.Hashem 10+8reb+5ast, A.Siddeequ Ibrahim Obeid 0+5reb+2ast, Qatar: M.Okoro 19+9reb+1ast, T.Soyebo 9+9reb+4ast, A.Sa'eed 8+2reb+3ast, W.Salameh 0+3reb, M.Ghareeb 0+1reb+1ast

gschID: 167535

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SERBIA

Dominic James officially signs for Partizan - by Zoran PopovicAfter two weeks of negotiations Dominic James (180-PG-86, college: Marquette) officially sings for Serbian Champion. James started this season in Aris Thessaloniki and on 7 games in Eurocup average scored 14.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1,4 steals and in Greek championship on 13 games average scored 15 points 2.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.9 steals per game. Before Aris and Partizan Dominic James played for Marquette University, pre-season games for Milwaukie Bucks Mersin and Lukoil Akademik.

Helios and Zlatorog allows less than 60 pioints - by Zeljko ZuleElektra-Zlatorog 54-68: Zlatorog went on a 14-4 run to take a lead 40-28 that never dipped below double figures for the rest of the way. Danijel Vujasinovic (180-G-89) had 16 points and 5 assists, Grega Mali came off the bench for 13 points and Jure Skific grabbed 10 rebounds. Zlatorog shot 60-percent (9-of-15) behind the 3-point line while Elektra missed all of its 11 3-pointers. Salih Nuhanovic finished with game-high 17 points and Ziga Zagorc collected 10 points and 7 rebounds.Rogaska-Helios 55-68: The visiting team trailed only one possesion. After tying the game at 23 in the second quarter, Helios scored 8 straight points and led by as many as 11 points at the half. Rogaska cit the deficit to 37-40, but Helios responded with 7 consecutive points and went on a 17-2 run spanning the third adnd fourth quarters to go ahead 66-43. Drazen Bubnic scored 19 points, Drago Pasalic came off the bench for 13 points and 8 rebounds and Dejan Jeftic added 10 points. Helios commited 22 turnover to Rogaska's 11, but the shot 19-of-26 for 2-points while the home team shot just 34-percent from the field, icluding 1-of-9 from 3-point rang. Mladen Soskic posted 14 points, Milos Miljkovic had 13 points and 11 rebounds and Boban Tomic collected 12 points and 7 rebounds.

KBL Round 48: Sonic Boom KT is defeated by ET Land Elephants - by Eurobasket NewsThe games are now more important than at the beginning of the Regular Season. We may still expect few shocking results in upcoming 10 rounds.

The most important game in the last round took place in Busan between third ranked Sonic Boom KT (27-17) and fifth ranked ET Land Elephants (24-21) on Wednesday night. Sonic Boom KT was defeated by ET Land Elephants in a tough game at home 69-75. Sonic Boom KT was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. ET Land Elephants shot 63.8 percent from the field. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) who helped to win the game recording 27 points and 8 rebounds and international forward Tae-Jong Moon (199-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) who added 19 points and 4 assists during the contest. ET Land Elephants' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) with 29 points and 9 rebounds. ET Land Elephants maintains fifth position with 24-21 record. Sonic Boom KT at the other side keeps the third place with 17 games lost. ET Land Elephants are looking forward to face higher ranked KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Sonic Boom KT will play at home against SK Knights in Seoul and is hoping to win this game. Very important is a home loss of second ranked Anyang KGC (30-14) against fourth ranked KCC Egis (25-20) on Tuesday night. Host Anyang KGC was defeated by KCC Egis in a tough game in Anyang 74-80. The winners were led by American forward DeShawn Sims (203-88, college: Michigan) who scored that evening 23 points and 7 rebounds and Tony Akins supported him with 20 points and 5 assists. Even a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds by American center Chris Daniels (211-84) did not help to save the game for Anyang KGC. KCC Egis maintains fourth position with 25-20 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the second place with 14 games lost. KCC Egis will play against ET Land Elephants (#5) in Inchon in the next round. Anyang KGC will play on the road against Samsung Thunders in Seoul and hopes to get back on the winning track. Tenth-ranked Samsung Thunders (10-34) gave a tough game to eighth ranked SK Knights (16-28) in Seoul on Tuesday. SK Knights managed to secure only two-point victory 76-74. However their fans expected easier game. The best player for the winners was Amal McCaskill who had a double-double by scoring 30 points and 11 rebounds (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). At the other side the best for losing team was Ira Clark who recorded 23 points and 8 rebounds. SK Knights maintains eighth position with 16-28 record. Samsung Thunders lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 34 lost games. SK Knights will meet higher ranked Sonic Boom KT (#3) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Samsung Thunders will play against the league's second-placed Anyang KGC (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Sixth ranked Mobis Phoebus (21-24) crushed at home 7th ranked LG Sakers (17-28) by 24 points 93-69, which is the biggest margin this round. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of LG Sakers. It was a good game for Terrence Leather who led his team to a victory with 37 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 5 assists. LG Sakers' coach Jin Kim gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Mobis Phoebus have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains sixth position with 21-24 record. LG Sakers at the other side keep the seventh place with 28 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

Sixth ranked Mobis Phoebus (21-24) crushed at home 7th ranked LG Sakers (17-28) by 24 points 93-69, which is the biggest margin this round. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of LG Sakers. The game was mostly controlled by Mobis Phoebus. LG Sakers was better in third quarter 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Mobis Phoebus players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. It was a good game for American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) who led his team to a victory with 37 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international power forward Ji-Hoon Ham (198-84) contributed with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Four Mobis Phoebus players scored in double figures. American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) replied with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks and naturalized American forward Gregory Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) added 20 points and 4 assists in the effort for LG Sakers. LG Sakers' coach Jin Kim gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Mobis Phoebus have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains sixth position with 21-24 record. LG Sakers at the other side keep the seventh place with 28 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Mobis Phoebus: T.Leather 37+9reb+5ast, J.Ham 18+9reb+6ast, G.Park 12+4reb+5ast, D.Yang 10+3reb+7ast, C.Song 7+1reb+1ast, D.Kim 3+1rebLG Sakers: G.Stevenson 20+2reb+4ast, A.Haynes 18+9reb, H.Byun 12+2reb+7ast, I.Baek 4+3reb, H.Kim 4+2reb+1ast, H.Park 4+2ast

The most important game in the last round took place in Busan between third ranked Sonic Boom KT (27-17) and fifth ranked ET Land Elephants (24-21) on Wednesday night. Sonic Boom KT was defeated by ET Land Elephants in a tough game at home 69-75. Sonic Boom KT was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. ET Land Elephants shot 63.8 percent from the field. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) who helped to win the game recording 27 points and 8 rebounds and international forward Tae-Jong Moon (199-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) who added 19 points and 4 assists during the contest. ET Land Elephants' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) with 29 points and 9 rebounds and forward Sang-Oh Park (196-81) scored 13 points and 4 assists. ET Land Elephants maintains fifth position with 24-21 record. Sonic Boom KT at the other side keeps the third place with 17 games lost. ET Land Elephants are looking forward to face higher ranked KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Sonic Boom KT will play at home against SK Knights in Seoul and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:ET Land: H.Hill 27+8reb+1ast, T.Moon 19+4reb+4ast, B.Chung 11+3reb+2ast, H.Lim 8, K.Shin 5+2reb+1ast, N.Ham 4+2reb+1astSonic Boom KT: C.Rhodes 29+9reb+2ast, S.Cho 16+1reb+3ast, S.Park 13+4reb+4ast, K.Young Hwan 4+1reb+3ast, Y.Song 4+4reb+1ast, M.Pyo 3+1reb+2ast

Very important is a home loss of second ranked Anyang KGC (30-14) against fourth ranked KCC Egis (25-20) on Tuesday night. Host Anyang KGC was defeated by KCC Egis in a tough game in Anyang 74-80. Anyang KGC was ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 32-25 second half run of KCC Egis. They made 18-of-20 charity shots (90.0 percent) during the game. The winners were led by American forward DeShawn Sims (203-88, college: Michigan) who scored that evening 23 points and 7 rebounds and naturalized American guard Tony Akins (180-80, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Court Side) supported him with 20 points and 5 assists. Even a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds by American center Chris Daniels (211-84) did not help to save the game for Anyang KGC. Guard Tae-Sool Kim (180-84) added 18 points and 7 assists. Four Anyang KGC players scored in double figures. KCC Egis maintains fourth position with 25-20 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the second place with 14 games lost. KCC Egis will play against ET Land Elephants (#5) in Inchon in the next round. Anyang KGC will play on the road against Samsung Thunders in Seoul and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:KCC Egis: D.Sims 23+7reb+3ast, T.Akins 20+4reb+5ast, S.Choo 16+1reb+4ast, S.Ha 7+9reb+1ast, J.Lim 7+1ast, T.Kim 4+2rebAnyang KGC: C.Daniels 20+11reb+2ast, T.Kim 18+3reb+7ast, C.Park 15+1reb, J.Lee 11+1ast, S.Oh 8+5reb+1ast, H.Yang 2+3reb+2ast

Tenth-ranked Samsung Thunders (10-34) gave a tough game to eighth ranked SK Knights (16-28) in Seoul on Tuesday. SK Knights managed to secure only two-point victory 76-74. However their fans expected easier game. Samsung Thunders were trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 10-point lead after three quarters before a 24-12 charge of SK Knights, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American power forward Amal McCaskill (211-73, college: Marquette) who had a double-double by scoring 30 points and 11 rebounds (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). The former international center Min-Soo Kim (200-82) chipped in 9 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Ira Clark (203-75, college: Texas) who recorded 23 points and 8 rebounds and international power forward Eric Sandrin (206-78, college: Seattle Pacific) added 20 points and 10 rebounds respectively. SK Knights maintains eighth position with 16-28 record. Samsung Thunders lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 34 lost games. SK Knights will meet higher ranked Sonic Boom KT (#3) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Samsung Thunders will play against the league's second-placed Anyang KGC (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either. Top scorers:SK Knights: A.McCaskill 30+11reb+2ast, S.Lee 15+1reb+3ast, M.Kim 9+8reb+4ast, K.Hoon Byun 7+6reb+2ast, J.Han 5+1reb, H.Kim 5+2rebSamsung Th.: I.Clark 23+8reb+1ast, E.Sandrin 20+10reb, S.Kim 20+1reb+5ast, K.Ngi 5+2reb+2ast, W.Lee 3+2reb+3ast, H.Hu 2+2reb+3ast

Moon Tae-Jong (199-F-75, agency: Alti Sport, college: Richmond) also added 19 points, four rebounds and four assists, including seven fourth quarter points to lead them to their second straight victory in Busan.

The last time Inchon played in Busan was one of Moon's best highlights of the year, when he hit a 25 foot three pointer with no time remaining to steal the game.

But this time there was no need for drama, as Inchon capped a 19-13 fourth quarter to secure the win, their fourth in the past five games.

Sito Alonso, coach of momentum - by Eurobasket NewsSITO ALONSO, COACH OF MOMENTUMHe is leading Lagun Aro GBC to walk the most exciting path not only of its history but of the ACB season

In physics, the linear or translational 'momentum' is the product of the mass and velocity of an object. Adapting that law of the classical mechanics to basketball, we could translate the 'momentum' as the product of the players of a team and its velocity on the court. Thinking to what happened in the last 9 games of the ACB League, no doubts that Sito Alonso is the head coach of the 'momentum' and Lagun Aro GBC is the team who is running faster than everyone else. They won 8 games losing only in Barcelona, and they climbed the ACB ranking from the 18th to the 6th place, reaching the historical qualification to the 'Copa del Rey'. But there is something more than results: if you look to Lagun Aro GBC, you will immediately will be impressed by the way its players play together, and once more the secret of success is the man standing courtside, just in front of the bench.

The moment of Lagun Aro is simply amazing: from 2-8 to 9-9, and from the bottom of the ranking to the 6th place How can you describe it from inside?' We have believed in ourselves since the first day and all along the season. We started with bad results, but except the first two games the team always showed good feeling. Then, after losing in Vitoria for a negative 2-8 record, we went to play on the court of Badalona, where we played a very good game, improving our defense and being able to win by 23 points. It was the beginning for getting over that moment, and since that day we won 8 games out of 9, reaching a current and incredible 10-9 record'.

In the modern basketball very often there is no time to build projects: can we say that your Club showed a great capacity to wait for the results and believe in its choices and in you?'Yes, I had clear in my mind from the beginning where I came. Lagun Aro is a special Club, they respect the head coach if they think that he is working well with the team. And the team competed in each game, trying to help him to keep calm and work easier'.

Looking back at the beginning of the season: 4 losses by three points (1 in overtime), 1 by four, and most of all every time with the team fighting until the end From outside, it seemed the demonstration that it was simply a question of time...'We suffered bad moments, especially after the loss against Estudiantes. We were leading by 17 points with 14 minutes to play, but they were able to recover and beat us in the latest part of the game. It was a very tough moment, but we worked harder and we tried to keep a good mentality to be competitive. Not only in that moment but all along the season, our faith has helped us to be a better team'.

How did you live all this path from inside? From the beginning until now, how did you feel the team grow up in your hands?'I had confidence in myself, and at the same time I felt the players also had, and they wanted to understand the new philosophy and made an extra effort to improve playing in this way without resting or doubts. That was crucial to believe and compete better week after week. We started playing more aggressive and passing the ball better, but the most important thing, we started being a good team in defense'.

How much the great improvement was up to hard work and how much it was up to mentality?'In my opinion, mentality have been the key to get over it. You can work harder than all the other teams, but you will be the best or worst team depending on your mental capacity . We still need to improve in many things, but talking about character, desire to sacrifice and fight, we have to keep all that qualities all along the season'.

What does 'Copa del Rey' mean for you and Lagun Aro? Is it a kind of dream come true, or the right satisfaction for your amazing recovery?'It is very difficult to explain my feeling. Lagun Aro didn't reach the Final Eight of 'Copa del Rey' in last two years, and this season we started badly but we reached it. We perfectly know that this is a historical and amazing dream, but at the same time we got it and we will be part of the 'Copa del Rey': so now we have to prepare our next game before going there and play against Valencia, trying to enjoy but also thinking to win. We can't go there to lose without competing, and most of all we want to show to all people our character. And to do it we need to keep those important things we did to arrive there'.

How much is difficult now to make the team keep the feet on the ground and which is the best way to do it?'I am sure that our players know the truth: we can't compete without following our basic rules. They are: to work more than the others, to play with our rhythm, to fight more than everybody else and to respect the opponents but just for that reason to compete against them harder'.

Which is the objective of the Club for the season? And what about the project for the future?'We have a common objective: to become a better team stepwise, without thinking to results, neither past nor future. We have to be focused to work on the present, knowing that we can decide it. Our main objective is to be competitive'.

The team always showed to be able to play very good together, with some fantastic performance by some individual players, like Panko and Baron. Is this right and where do you have to improve the most?'We have learnt we can't play individually, we need to be a team. Maybe we are not the best team, if we look to our players one by one. However, when we play together running, defending, passing the ball, and believing in everybody, we are more dangerous. We have good players, but we know we have a better team'.

Personally, what about the feeling to be back to coach in ACB and the way you are living this season?'I have been given basketball speeches, practicing with young players, studying the ACB and European Leagues to be ready to come back. I have been lucky to return to the ACB League. I know the level of the competition is very high, and I am enjoying a lot competing with the best coaches and teams. I have only one way this year: take advantage of everything to become a better coach and to build a good project'.

Everything he said look so clear that you could make the mistake to think that, at the end, to do what Lagun Aro is doing can be simple. In truth, this is because the 'momentum' of Sito Alonso is not limited to the last two months, but includes both his life and basketball career as well in one only thing. It happens, when you start coaching at 11, and since that day you will never stop 'breathing' basketball for one single day. It happens, when you grew up as a coach in the 'cantera' of Joventut Badalona, working day by day to forge young talents with Aito as a mentor, and launching Ricky Rubio and Rudy Fernandez to see them become champions in the ACB and finally fly to the NBA. It happens, when a new Club ask you not to work for immediate results, but to build something for the future, understanding that this is the real key to be successful. It all happened to Sito Alonso, the head coach of Lagun Aro GBC. They own the most exciting 'momentum' of this basketball season.

Claudio Fonseca joins Plasencia - by Eurobasket NewsPlasencia bolstered their frontcourt. They landed Claudio Fonseca (206-C-89). The Portuguese centre started the season with Vitoria Guimaraes. Claudio Fonseca tallied 10.0 points, 9.2 rebounds per game in LPB. Previously Claudio Fonseca had stints with Alicante, Huesca, Pamesa Valencia. He was the member of Portuguese U16, U18 and U20 National Teams. The centre is currently the member of Portuguese National Team. Claudio Fonseca participated at 2011 EuroBasket. The centre posted 2.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per appearance in Lithuania. Claudio Fonseca is expected to replace Andrais Thornton (203-C-85, college: NW Missouri St.) on the roster. The Portuguese centre is expected to join the ranks of Plasencia tonight.

Basketligan Round 28: Norrkoping Dolphins defeat KFUM Jamtland in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket NewsNinth-ranked KFUM Jamtland (11-18) gave a tough game to second ranked Norrkoping Dolphins (17-9) on Tuesday. The visitors from Norrkoping managed to secure only two-point victory 83-81. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 26-18. But KFUM Jamtland won second period 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Norrkoping Dolphins made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Andrew Mitchell (181-79, college: Kent St.) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 4 assists and Lithuanian forward Povilas Sakinis (199-80) who added 12 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach Paul Burke used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American-Liberian power forward Boakai Lalugba (200-81, college: Bucknell, agency: Court Side) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Norrkoping Dolphins have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 17-9 record behind leader Sodertalje. KFUM Jamtland at the other side keeps the ninth place with 18 games lost. Norrkoping Dolphins are looking forward to face LF Basket (#5) in Lulea in the next round. KFUM Jamtland will play on the road against LF Basket (#5) in Lulea and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. The game between Top Four teams took place in Boras. 3rd ranked host Boras Basket (16-12) lost to first ranked Sodertalje Kings (18-9) 77-65. The winners were led by American center Kenneth Simms (203-86, college: Cumberland) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 rebounds and Johnell Smith supported him with 13 points. Even 18 points by Lebanese-American guard Omar Krayem (185-86, college: Cal.Baptist, agency: Pro Management Agency) did not help to save the game for Boras Basket. Sodertalje Kings have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 18-9 record. Boras Basket at the other side dropped to the fourth place with 12 games lost. Sodertalje Kings will play against Solna Vikings (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Boras Basket will play against the league's second-placed Norrkoping Dolphins in Norrkoping and it may be a tough game between close rivals. The game in Stockholm was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked LF Basket (15-11) played at the court of 8th ranked 08 Stockholm (13-15). LF Basket managed to secure a 6-point victory 85-79 on Tuesday. Marcus Relphorde fired 27 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Joakim Blom produced 23 points and 5 rebounds for lost side. LF Basket maintains fifth position with 15-11 record. 08 Stockholm lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 15 games lost. LF Basket will meet league's second-placed Norrkoping Dolphins in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. 08 Stockholm will play against Sundsvall Dragons (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Fourth ranked Solna Vikings (16-11) beat at home 7th ranked Uppsala Basket (14-14) by 14 points 88-74, which is the biggest margin this round. It was a very good performance for Jonte Flowers who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. Solna Vikings have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Uppsala Basket at the other side keeps the seventh position with 14 games lost. Solna Vikings' next round opponent will be league's leader Sodertalje Kings on the road and it will be for sure the game of the week. Uppsala Basket will play against Eco Orebro (#10).

In the last game of round 28 Sundsvall won against Eco Orebro on the opponent's court 92-80. The most impressive stats of the last round was 27 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists by Mark Tyndale of Sundsvall.

The game in Stockholm was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked LF Basket (15-11) played at the court of 8th ranked 08 Stockholm (13-15). LF Basket managed to secure a 6-point victory 85-79 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 46-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. American forward Marcus Relphorde (200-88, college: Colorado) fired 27 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American-German center Urule Igbavboa (205-87, college: Valparaiso) chipped in 20 points. Four LF Basket players scored in double figures. The former international center Joakim Blom (211-76, agency: Court Side) produced 23 points and 5 rebounds and guard Nils Hedstrom (190-83) added 19 points respectively for lost side. LF Basket maintains fifth position with 15-11 record. 08 Stockholm lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 15 games lost. LF Basket will meet league's second-placed Norrkoping Dolphins in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. 08 Stockholm will play against Sundsvall Dragons (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:LF Basket: M.Relphorde 27+8reb+2ast, U.Igbavboa 20+2reb+1ast, M.Pahlmblad 14+2reb+5ast, K.Ramsey 10+4reb+1ast, M.Poscic 8+4reb+2ast, E.Salon 3+2reb+2ast08: J.Blom 23+5reb+3ast, N.Hedstrom 19+1reb+2ast, J.Akesson 15+3reb+2ast, O.Ilunga 9+3reb+7ast, J.Jonsson 5+2reb+2ast, H.Magnusson 4+8reb+4ast

Very expected game when 10th ranked Eco Orebro (2-26) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Sundsvall Dragons (15-12) 92-80. The game without a history. Sundsvall Dragons led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. It was a very good performance for American guard Mark Tyndale (196-86, college: Temple) who helped to win the game recording 27 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Icelandic guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern) contributed with 28 points for the winners. Four Sundsvall Dragons players scored in double figures. American forward Demond Watt (200-89, college: Texas A&M-CC) replied with 25 points and 9 rebounds (on 12-of-14 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import center Bernard Toombs (208-87, college: Troy) added 12 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Eco Orebro. Sundsvall Dragons maintains sixth position with 15-12 record. Eco Orebro at the other side stay dead last with 26 lost games. Sundsvall Dragons' next round opponent will be 08 Stockholm (#8) at home. Eco Orebro will play against Uppsala Basket. Top scorers:Sundsvall: J.Sigurdarson 28+1reb+3ast, M.Tyndale 27+5reb+6ast, D.Gregory 12+11reb+4ast, H.Baeringsson 12+7reb+1ast, N.Zivcevic 5+1reb+1ast, J.Pierre 5+7astEco Orebro: D.Watt 25+9reb+1ast, P.Hampton 12+2reb+3ast, B.Toombs 12+13reb+5ast, S.Licartovsky 9+3reb+1ast, A.Pleick 7+4reb+7ast, B.Barton 6+2reb+3ast

Fourth ranked Solna Vikings (16-11) beat at home 7th ranked Uppsala Basket (14-14) by 14 points 88-74, which is the biggest margin this round. The game was mostly controlled by Solna Vikings. Uppsala Basket was better in second period 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Uppsala Basket 42-29 including 16 on the offensive glass. It was a very good performance for American swingman Jonte Flowers (196-85, college: Winona St., agency: Warren Sports International) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. The other American import forward William Walker (201-87, college: Bethel, IN, agency: Warren Sports International) contributed with 22 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Guard Rickard Eriksson (190-82) replied with 17 points and American power forward Delvon Johnson (206-89, college: Arkansas, agency: Priority Sports) added 16 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Uppsala Basket. Four Uppsala Basket players scored in double figures. Solna Vikings have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Uppsala Basket at the other side keeps the seventh position with 14 games lost. Solna Vikings' next round opponent will be league's leader Sodertalje Kings on the road and it will be for sure the game of the week. Uppsala Basket will play against Eco Orebro (#10). Top scorers:Solna: J.Flowers 25+10reb+3ast, W.Walker 22+8reb+2ast, L.Myrthil 19+7reb+5ast, L.Gunnarsson 8+3reb+3ast, K.Doychinov 8+6reb, J.Westerlund 3+4reb+3astUppsala: S.Grundberg 20+3reb+1ast, R.Eriksson 17+4reb+3ast, J.Jeansson 17+5reb, D.Johnson 16+7reb+1ast, A.Nordstrom 2+2reb, M.Nakos 2

The game between Top Four teams took place in Boras. 3rd ranked host Boras Basket (16-12) lost to first ranked Sodertalje Kings (18-9) 77-65. The game was mostly controlled by Sodertalje Kings. Boras Basket was better in third quarter 20-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sodertalje Kings made 17-of-22 charity shots (77.3 percent) during the game. The winners were led by American center Kenneth Simms (203-86, college: Cumberland) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 rebounds and the other American import point guard Johnell Smith (185-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) supported him with 13 points. Even 18 points by Lebanese-American guard Omar Krayem (185-86, college: Cal.Baptist, agency: Pro Management Agency) did not help to save the game for Boras Basket. American-Israeli guard Jason Thomas (191-82, college: American, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) added 11 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. Sodertalje Kings have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 18-9 record. Boras Basket at the other side dropped to the fourth place with 12 games lost. Sodertalje Kings will play against Solna Vikings (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Boras Basket will play against the league's second-placed Norrkoping Dolphins in Norrkoping and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Sodertalje: J.Smith 13+4reb+3ast, K.Simms 13+15reb, J.Andersson 11+1reb, T.Borg 11, D.Pita 9+2reb+1ast, M.Joseph 6+2reb+1astBoras: O.Krayem 18+4reb+2ast, J.Thomas 11+9reb+2ast, M.Palm 10+7reb+1ast, R.Zamroz 9+2reb+2ast, C.McKnight 8+8reb+1ast, M.Paravinja 5+1ast

Ninth-ranked KFUM Jamtland (11-18) gave a tough game to second ranked Norrkoping Dolphins (17-9) on Tuesday. The visitors from Norrkoping managed to secure only two-point victory 83-81. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 26-18. But KFUM Jamtland won second period 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Norrkoping Dolphins made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Andrew Mitchell (181-79, college: Kent St.) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 4 assists and Lithuanian forward Povilas Sakinis (199-80) who added 12 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach Paul Burke used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American-Liberian power forward Boakai Lalugba (200-81, college: Bucknell, agency: Court Side) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and Croatian forward Drazen Klaric (205-80, agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Norrkoping Dolphins have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 17-9 record behind leader Sodertalje. KFUM Jamtland at the other side keeps the ninth place with 18 games lost. Norrkoping Dolphins are looking forward to face LF Basket (#5) in Lulea in the next round. KFUM Jamtland will play on the road against LF Basket (#5) in Lulea and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. Top scorers:Norrkoping: A.Mitchell 17+1reb+4ast, M.Lindquist 14+2reb+1ast, P.Balocka 13+5reb, P.Sakinis 12+7reb, O.Ayuba 8+4reb+1ast, A.Saks 8+4rebJamtland: E.Zabas 22+4reb+3ast, B.Lalugba 19+14reb+4ast, D.Klaric 15+10reb+4ast, B.Bjornsson 10+1reb+3ast, J.Stamper 8+5reb+1ast, A.Karlsson 3